AS / A2 English Literature

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
If you enjoy reading and debating and want to learn how to present your views effectively, orally and in writing, then English Literature is for you. In addition to learning more about literature, you will develop a wide variety of skills that are highly regarded both by employers and universities, and which will complement many of your other courses at Priestley.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?
At AS, you will study a range of short stories; including; the poetry of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes, F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and one other novel of your choice, along with David Hare’s play, Murmuring Judges. You will learn about the texts’ social, historical and literary contexts. You will produce a coursework folder containing a 1500-word essay comparing The Great Gatsby with one other novel, and one piece of creative writing with a commentary (1500 words). At A2, you will study more challenging texts including Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure, Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi, and the poetry of John Donne. You will also undertake an independent study of three texts for coursework to produce a 3000-word comparative essay.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
40% Coursework, 60% Examination for both AS and A2 courses.

WHAT SKILLS AND SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
You must have at least a grade C in both GCSE English Language and English Literature. You must be prepared to read independently and be willing to discuss and justify your ideas about texts. You will need to analyse texts and write essays and develop the skills to express your ideas clearly and logically. You will develop oral communication skills through discussion and formal presentations. You will also develop independent research skills using the internet, Virtual Learning Environment and Learning Resource Centre.

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
English Literature prepares you for careers which require good communication skills, such as publishing, public relations, marketing, journalism, media, management, the legal profession, teaching and many others. It is also ideal preparation for a host of degree courses.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Studying English Literature will give you opportunities to attend theatre performances and conferences, and to join us on residential visits. You can also join the Creative Writing Group and College Magazine.