English Literature
Why study English Literature?
English Literature is the ideal subject for those who have a passion for reading and a lively, articulable interest in contemporary and historical ideas and debates. Literature students will explore themes and concepts that have fascinated writers from Shakespeare to the present day.
Students study a diverse range of texts, including:
- Pre- and post-1900 poetry
- Shakespeare
- Pre- and post-1900 prose
- Post-1900 drama
- Literary criticism
The course covers three components: two external examinations, and one internally-assessed coursework unit. Critical discussions and evaluations of each text raise compelling questions about human behaviour, social values, attitudes and imagination; these are as important now as they have always been.
Why our students like this course
'I have always enjoyed how personal it is'
'I chose English because you have the freedom to form your own ideas and interpret literature in your own individual way. English is relevant in other subject areas too: Languages, Humanities and any other subject requiring well-structured written work. English is something I thoroughly enjoy and it will continue to be valuable across my studies and in my future.'
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in English Language and English Literature
Exam Board
AQA (A)
Course Structure
| Y12 Half Term | Unit 1 | Unit 2 | Unit 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn 1 |
Introduction of Love through the Ages Othello, Shakespeare |
The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald | |
| Autumn 2 | Othello, Shakespeare |
The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald Love through the Ages Poetry Anthology |
|
| Spring 1 |
Othello, Shakespeare Unseen Poetry |
Love through the Ages Poetry Anthology | |
| Spring 2 | Revolutionary Road, Richard Yates | Antigone, Sophocles | |
| Summer 1 |
Revolutionary Road, Richard Yates Preparation for mocks |
Antigone, Sophocles Preparation for mocks |
|
| Summer 2 |
Revolutionary Road, Richard Yates Unseen Prose |
Feminine Gospels, Carol Ann Duffy |
| Y13 Half Term | Unit 1 | Unit 2 | Unit 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn 1 |
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Tennessee Williams |
Feminine Gospels, Carol Ann Duffy | |
| Autumn 2 |
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Tennessee Williams Preparation for mocks |
Feminine Gospels, Carol Ann Duffy Preparation for mocks |
|
| Spring 1 |
Revision |
NEA | |
| Spring 2 | Revision | Revision | |
| Summer 1 |
Revision |
Revision |
|
| Summer 2 |
|
Where does this subject lead me?
This subject offers not only the best preparation for an English Literature degree, but as a facilitating subject for a range of degree courses it also provides the transferrable intellectual training, the thoughtful mind and the skilled expression needed for pathways such as Law, History, Psychology, Languages and Politics.
Further Advice
- videos of people who are working in jobs that use English at icould.
- example university degree courses and careers leading from this subject
- advice on applying for a university course in English or Law
- general advice on applying for University / UCAS
- Creative Industries: explore a wide selection of creative careers
- Apprenticeship courses: Info on what an apprenticeship is and courses available
Contact a Teacher
If you have any subject specific questions that you'd like to ask. You are very welcome to contact the relevant Head of Subject. To find their email address click on Teaching Staff. For general enquiries, contact the 6th Form Team.
Induction Resources
Please find below some resources that will help you to prepare for the course over the summer holidays.