GCSE English Literature

Course information:
GCSE English Literature

Course content:
This course aims to develop the ability to read, understand and respond to all types of text, including prose, poetry, drama, Shakespeare and pre-twentieth century texts. Response to the texts involves both written and oral work.

Syllabus Outline (SER 2495R)
A minimum of four texts are studied. These are chosen by the College and include a Shakespeare play, poetry, prose and drama. One text, apart from Shakespeare, is by a pre-twentieth century author. The course looks at characterisation, plot and structure, setting and atmosphere, style and viewpoint.

Assessment procedure:
Final assessment is made by examination (70%) and coursework (30%).

Examination Paper (Two hours 30 minutes)

Part One (30 minutes; reading time) Students are given time to read and make notes on pieces of unseen poetry, prose and drama which are printed on the examination paper.

Part Two (Two hours) Students are required to answer three questions and cover either two or three areas of study. One question must be answered from Section A which will require comment on texts studied during the course and the pieces read during Part One. Section B from which one question must be answered, refers to texts studied during the course. The third question may be chosen from either section. Texts which can contain the student†s own notes are allowed in the examination.


Course Work
This consists of three or four assignments, in total about 1500+ words in length, selected from the work done throughout the course and based on the same texts as are used in the examination. It may also include one oral assessment in place of a written assignment.

Qualifications achieved:
GCSE English Literature Syllabus B

Free study and financial support:
Most full-time students do not have to pay for their course. We may also be able to help you with some of the extra costs associated with college, eg travel, childcare, equipment, books etc. In addition, if you have just left school, you may be eligible for an Educational Maintenance Allowance. Please ask us about â€-Money Matters†for more details.