English Literature AS and A Level

English Literature AS and A2

Subject category:
English and Communication

What will I study?
There are two modules at AS level - Unit 1 = Aspects of Narrative which is an examination of two hours on two novels and a selection of poetry (taken in June ) (60%) Unit 2 = Dramatic Genres which consists of two pieces of coursework within the dramatic genre of Tragedy (40%) There are two modules at A2 Level - Unit 3 = Texts and Genres which consists of an examination of 2 hours in June on Elements of the Gothic (30% of total A Level) Unit 4 = Further and Independent Reading is a coursework module which consists of one piece of comparative coureswork (comparing two texts- 1200-1500 words) and one piece applying a theoretical position to a text (1200-1500 words)(20% of total A Level).

Duration:
One year for AS Level and a further year to complete A Level.

Do I need any additional qualifications/ skills?
An enjoyment of reading is essential. You should be prepared to analyse and discuss a range of challenging texts, including Shakespeare, working either with the whole class, in small groups or independently. All assessment elements require you to write extended analytical essays.

How will I be assessed?
This A Level will be assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. There will be important class essays to complete, presentations alongside independent study.

What can I do afterwards?
This course is a good preparation for Higher Education or full-time employment in a range of professions, including law, media and journalism, public relations and teaching. Many universities offering traditional English degrees will expect you to have studied an English Literature course of this nature, including a range of texts written before 1900. It may be to your advantage to study the separate English Language A Level as well.

Are there any additional costs involved?
You will be asked to buy most of your set texts so that you can annotate them, although a poetry anthology may be provided by the exam board. The total cost each year will be about £40. There may be opportunities to visit the theatre and attend study days in London, for which there will be a charge to cover tickets and travel.

Location:
Lewes 6th Form College