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English Literature - KS5
Students at SJB study English because it defines our reality – from the way that we think, to the words that we speak, to the way that we write. Language enriches students’ minds with an understanding, respect and empathy for different voices from across time and cultures. By studying English, students will engage with the world outside of the classroom, become more confident in their self-expression, and develop an appreciation of language in all its forms.
Exam board: AQA
Qualification: English Literature A, 7712
AQA's Specification A is an engaging and up-to-date specification that approaches the study of literature through the lens of historicism, encouraging the independent study of a range of texts within a shared context, giving logic and meaning to the way that texts are grouped for study. This unifying approach facilitates the inclusion of a range of wider reading, thus extending students’ experience and appreciation of literature.
Offering clear progression from GCSE, this course allows students to build on the skills and knowledge already gained and prepare for their next steps.
The variety of assessment styles used, such as passage-based questions, unseen material, single-text questions, multiple-text questions, open- and closed-book approaches allows students to develop a wide range of skills, such as the ability to read critically, analyse, evaluate and undertake independent research which are valuable for both further study and future employment.
| Paper 1: Love Through The Ages |
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You will study three texts: Othello by William Shakespeare, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald which you will compare with poems from an anthology of pre-1900 poetry. You will also study a variety of unseen poems for the unseen poetry comparison. |
| Paper 2: Texts In Shared Contexts |
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We use Option 2B: Modern times - literature from 1945 to the present day You will study three texts: The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood, A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams and Feminine Gospels by Carol Ann Duffy. You will also study a variety of unseen prose extracts for the unseen element of the exam. |
| Non-exam assessment: Independent critical study - texts across time |
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A 2500 word essay comparing two texts, one of which must have been written pre-1900. We study Hamlet by William Shakespeare and suggest that you use this as one of your texts. During year 12, you will choose 3 further texts to read as potential options to compare with Hamlet. These are also beneficial for your widing reading of literature. Our list of texts for you to choose from are as follows: • The Wasp Factory – Iain Banks |
Stuyding English Literature at A Level will give you a variety of skills which are desirable for both further study and work. Skills you will gain:
Core Analytical Skills
The ability to closely read and critically evaluate texts, identifying key themes, techniques, and interpretations.
Writing & Communication
Express complex ideas clearly and persuasively through structured essays and articulate discussion.
Literary Appreciation & Interpretation
Gain insight into literary devices, genres, and multiple layers of meaning within texts.
Contextual & Cultural Awareness
Understand how literature reflects and responds to historical and social contexts across cultures.
Independent Learning & Research
Build confidence in self-directed study, integrating research, historical context and critical perspectives into literary analysis.
For students to be successful in English Literature, they must have a love of reading, and be ready to read a lot in their own time. AQA suggest that for students to be successful in the exam, they must read each of their set texts 3 times over the course in order to know it well enough to answer any question that is asked.
Students should also enjoy essay writing, and have the stamina to write for a 3 hour exam! Planning, editing, organisation and collaboration with others are also skills required to excel in the A Level.
Entry Requirments:
- A minimum of a grade 6 in GCSE English Literature is essential
| Paper 1: Love Through The Ages |
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| Study of three texts: Othello by William Shakespeare, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and an anthology of pre-1900 poetry. Examination will include two unseen poems. |
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Assessed
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Questions Section A: Shakespeare: one passage-based question with linked essay (25 marks) Section B: Unseen poetry: compulsory essay question on two unseen poems (25 marks) Section C: Comparing texts: one essay question linking two texts (25 marks) |
| Paper 2: Texts in Shared Contexts |
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We study Option 2B - Modern times: literature from 1945 to the present day Study of three texts: The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood, A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams and Feminine Gospels by Carol Ann Duffy. Examination will include an unseen prose extract. |
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Assessed
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Questions Section A: Set texts. One essay question on set text (25 marks) Section B: Contextual linking
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| Non-Exam Assessment: Independent critical study - texts across time |
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Comparative critical study of two texts, at least one of which must have been written pre-1900 One extended essay (2500 words) and a bibliography |
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Assessed
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| Assessment Objectives |
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In all essays and the coursework, you are marked on the same assessment objectives. Essays are marked holistically, so all objectives must be covered, but the most important element is answering the question and writing with clarity. Assessment objectives: • AO1: Articulate informed, personal and creative responses to literary texts, using associated concepts and terminology, and coherent, accurate written expression. • AO2: Analyse ways in which meanings are shaped in literary texts. • AO3: Demonstrate understanding of the significance and influence of the contexts in which literary texts are written and received. • AO4: Explore connections across literary texts. • AO5: Explore literary texts informed by different interpretations. |