English Literature

AQA A-Level English Literature A – 7712

Course leader: Vikki Peverell – vikkipeverell@kba.uk

Any questions about this course can be directed to Mr Mabbutt joshmabbutt@kba.uk or Mrs Craig sophiecraig@kba.uk

WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?

Entry requirements:

Grade 6 in English GCSE.

WHAT WILL I DO?

English Literature A’s historicist approach to the study of literature rests upon reading texts within a shared context. Working from the belief that no text exists in isolation but is the product of the time in which it was produced, English Literature A encourages students to explore the relationships that exist between texts and the contexts within which they are written, received and understood.

This engaging course will develop your ability to think critically, construct sophisticated arguments and communicate ideas with confidence. Through the study of a wide range of literary texts, you will explore themes, characters and perspectives that have shaped societies across time. English Literature is highly valued by universities and employers alike, equipping students with analytical, research and writing skills that open doors to a diverse range of careers and further study opportunities.

WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?

This course is ideal for students who enjoy reading, exploring ideas and discussing how literature reflects the world around us. You should be interested in analysing characters, themes, relationships and the historical and social contexts in which texts were written.

You will need to enjoy developing your own interpretations, comparing different writers and constructing well-supported arguments through discussion and academic writing.

COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS

In Year 12

Students are introduced to the A-Level set texts and explore the theme of Love through the Ages.

• Othello – William Shakespeare: Exploring Shakespeare's presentation of love, jealousy, relationships and conflict.
• Poetry – AQA Literature A Anthology: Love Poetry through the Ages: Studying how poets represent love and relationships across different periods.
• The Awakening – Kate Chopin: Exploring relationships, identity, society and expectations.
• Journey’s End – R.C. Sherriff: Examining the impact of war and its effect on individuals and relationships.
• Unseen Poetry: Comparing two unseen poems that share a concern with a key aspect of love.

Students also explore Texts in Shared Contexts, focusing on literature arising from the First World War and its aftermath. This considers the impact of war on combatants, non-combatants and subsequent generations, alongside its social, political, personal and literary legacies.

In Year 13

Students develop their understanding of the texts and contexts studied in Year 12, while preparing for their final examinations and completing independent coursework.

The focus on Texts in Shared Contexts – WW1 and its Aftermath includes:

• Scars Upon My Heart – edited by Catherine Reilly: A poetry anthology exploring women's experiences and responses to the First World War.
• Life Class – Pat Barker: A novel exploring the personal and social impact of the First World War.
• Unseen WW1 Fiction: Developing the skills to analyse and interpret previously unseen extracts.

Students also undertake an independent research project, developing their own ideas and interpretations through the comparative study of two literary texts.

ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK

The A-Level is assessed through two written examinations and one Non-Exam Assessment (NEA):

• Paper 1 – Love through the Ages: Written examination – 40%.
• Paper 2 – Texts in Shared Contexts: Written examination – 40%.
• Non-Exam Assessment – Independent Critical Study: Texts Across Time: Coursework – 20%.

The NEA involves an independent comparative study of two literary texts, one of which must have been written before 1900. Students produce an extended essay of approximately 2,500 words. The coursework is internally assessed and externally moderated by AQA.

PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?

A-Level English Literature provides an excellent foundation for higher education and a wide range of careers.

Possible degree courses include:

• English Literature
• English Language and Literature
• Creative Writing
• Journalism
• History
• Law
• Media and Communications
• Drama and Theatre Studies
• Education

Career opportunities include teaching, journalism, publishing, writing, marketing, communications, public relations, media and the wider creative industries.

The analytical, research, communication and writing skills developed through the course are highly valued by universities and employers.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Grade 6 in English GCSE.