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).

“Leaders make sure that students are prepared well to move on to the training and courses they wish to undertake. Most students move on to university courses.”
Ofsted 2020