English Literature
Entry requirements: GCSE Grade 5 or above in English Language or English Literature
English Literature is one of the most popular and successful A level subjects at Gateacre. Students study a variety of literary periods and genres and are introduced to the conventions of literary study and critical thinking. The course also focuses on the social, historical and cultural contexts in which literary texts are written and understood. Candidates must have an interest in Literature and enjoy reading. Enthusiasm for writing is also advantageous.
SUMMARY OF ASSESSMENT
Component 1
Poetry
Written examination – 2 hours - 30% of qualification
Section A - Poetry pre-1900 (open-book, clean copy)
One two-part question based on the reading of one pre-1900 poetry text from a prescribed list (The Miller’s Tale, Chaucer)
Section B - Poetry post-1900 (open-book, clean copy)
One question from a choice of two based on the reading of two post-1900 poetry texts from a prescribed list (Carol Anne Duffy Mean Time & Philip Larkin The Whitsun Weddings)
Component 2
Drama
Written examination – 2 hours - 30% of qualification
Section A - Shakespeare (closed book)
One two-part question based on the reading of one Shakespeare play from a prescribed list (King Lear)
Section B - Drama (closed book)
One question from a choice of two based on the reading of a pair of plays: onepre-1900 and one post-1900, from a prescribed list
(Tennessee Williams A Street Car named Desire & John Webster, The Duchess of Malfi)
Component 3
Unseen Texts
Written examination – 2 hours - 20% of qualification
Section A - Unseen prose
One question from a choice of two, analysing an unseen passage of prose, taken from one of two
prescribed periods for study
Section B - Unseen poetry
One question from a choice of two, analysing an unseen poem or poetry extract
Component 4
Prose study
Non-exam assessment - 20% of qualification
One 2500-3500 word assignment based on the reading of two prose texts from different periods, one
pre-2000 (Remains of the Day, Kazuo Ishiguro) and one post-2000 (Atonement, Ian McEwan).