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English Literature

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what our students say

"I chose to study English Literature because I enjoy reading and analysing texts from a range of literary genres. One of the things I like best about it is the way it evokes a complex discussion about the nuances of language as I find it interesting to explore contrasting literary ideas. Next year I'm planning to study English Literature at University and I am excited at the prospect of developing my skills and furthering the ideas presented to me at A-Level. This subject has enabled me to make connections between the past and present as Literature encompasses historical and philosophical ideas which have enabled me to broaden my knowledge across a range of subjects."

Becca Mccaig


Exam Board: Eduqas

“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies.  The man who never reads lives only one.” (George RR Martin)

English Literature touches all our lives, intellectually and emotionally.

English Literature is a thrilling and challenging A Level that will enable students to develop a range of invaluable skills.  The course encourages students to respond with knowledge and understanding to a variety of literary texts, of different genres and from different centuries.  Across the two year course, students will have the opportunity to study a variety of poetry, prose and drama, including prose written before and after 1900 and a play by Shakespeare, to develop skills of analysing previously unseen texts and, in the second year of the course, to write a comparative coursework essay based on two prose texts of the student’s own choice – one written before and one after 2000.

 

Who should consider English Literature?

Prospective students should already enjoy reading fiction and discussing what they have read.  They should have excellent skills in both English and English Literature. Primarily, students should love reading a variety of challenging prose, drama and poetry texts, considering the deeper implications of texts and the ways in which writers craft their work.
 
We would particularly recommend this A Level for anyone thinking of studying English Literature at university, going into law or similar professions.  It does, of course, complement many other A Level subjects very well.  It is a prestigious A Level that enables students to develop their communication skills, and further their skills of analysis, synthesis and independent thinking. 
 
We are looking for thoughtful, enthusiastic students, who will, as the course progresses, become autonomous readers, able to judge for themselves the quality of a text.

Student reflection:

"The transition from GCSE to A Level English Literature was really smooth as you can use all the skills you have developed at GCSE."

"Lessons are enjoyable, engaging, creative, and relaxed - the teachers are great!"

"My written skills have really developed over the course, and I can express my ideas fluently and effectively (after many essays!) I know that all the skills I have developed will be really useful in the future."

"You learn so many skills of analysis that it allows you to unlock a whole other layer within Literature.  Also, the skills are invaluable for other subjects: essay writing, analysis, reading of lengthy texts"

"I'm going to study Law, and learning how to deconstruct a question and construct an argument has been so valuable."

Entry requirements

GCSE level 6 in English Language and English Literature

Contact: Mrs Gregory, Head of English 

k.gregory@rugbyhighschool.co.uk