English Language and Literature A Level

How do we tell stories? What happens when we break the rules of English? How are the shifting values of modern Britain captured in modern drama? These and other questions will be key on this course, as you learn how to apply a stylistic approach to drama, prose fiction and poetry as well as non-literary texts (e.g transcripts of conversations), examining patterns of vocabulary and grammar.

There are opportunities for original writing, including producing the opening of a story using a modern novel as a style model, and writing a piece of non-fiction (such as a newspaper column or a piece of satire). You will also produce a comparative essay on two texts, one of which will be non-fiction.

Additional

Grade 5 in GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature (if taken).

Assessment

80% exams and 20% coursework.

Progression

Most university English courses, including courses with a strong Literature element, will accept the combined Language and Literature A level in their entry requirements, although you will need to show evidence of extra reading if it is a pure English Literature degree. Students doing a wide variety of other subjects, in Arts, Humanities and Sciences often opt for an English A level and they go on to many different courses and careers. The skills that you learn are a useful starting point for careers in the arts and the media (including journalism), law and business, and in other professions where creativity, a critical approach and good communication skills are needed.