About the Course

The study of English not only develops your reading, writing and analytical ability, but it also enables the development of integral skills such as communication, problem solving and team building that you will find applicable for higher education, employment and the wider community.

You will look at the way writers shape meaning through form, structure and language and how texts relate to their historical and social contexts. The course develops your powers of analysis and your reading and writing skills. It also encourages personal response and engagement with texts and, hopefully, a love of literature.

The core content of the course includes exploring texts in the key areas of Love through the Age, Texts in Shared Contexts (WW1 and its Aftermath) and Independent Critical Study (coursework). The course involves studying prose, drama and poetry. There are 2 exams (80%) and one extended coursework essay (20%). The two coursework texts are negotiated with tutors and we encourage you to choose suitable texts which you will enjoy. Please visit the AQA website for more information.

The important study skills needed for this course are literacy: reading and writing. The key intellectual skills are an enquiring mind and a willingness to engage in literary debate.

 

Key Units

Paper 1 – Love Through the Ages

• One Shakespeare text
• One prose
• One poetry text

Paper 2 – Texts in Shared Contexts (WW1 and its Aftermath)

• One prose
• One drama
• One poetry textIn addition, both exams include a response to unseen texts

Students will also complete a Non Exam Assessment (NEA - coursework) – comparative essay on two texts.

Entry Requirements

To study 3 A Levels

5+ GCSEs grades 9-4 in different subjects, including English Language and Maths at a minimum of grade 4

Additional Requirements

Students wishing to study English Literature at A Level must have a minimum of grade 5 in GCSE English Language.

The Sheffield Sixth Form welcomes students who have studied vocational qualifications. However, the minimum entry requirements for the A Level programme, as shown above, must be GCSEs.

 

Assessment

• Two exams (80% of the overall grade)
• One extended coursework essay (20% of the overall grade)

 

Where does this Lead

A Level English Literature is a highly regarded qualification. Past students have gone on to study literature either as a single subject or in combination with others at a wide range of universities across the country. 
 

Future Opportunities

The Literature student’s skills are highly valued in a variety of careers including:

• Law
• Journalism
• Theatre production
• Teaching
• Business
• Public service

 

Tell Me More

Will this subject suit me?

The ideal student would enjoy reading all types of novels, plays, and poetry. You would enjoy discussing meanings in literature and be able to write coherently.

You will enjoy this course if you have an enquiring mind, enjoy reading and want to learn more about how great works of literature convey their ideas. If you are a creative person you will especially enjoy writing inspired by your reading.

Personal Study Time

A Level students are expected to devote as much time outside the classroom to their studies as in lessons. Homework will be set regularly but students are expected to undertake self- directed research as well. Students will receive effective feedback, guidance and help from their tutors. 

 

Extra Costs

There will be opportunities to attend various trips to venues such as the theatre and university lectures, which may have a small cost attached. 
Students are also expected to purchase their books for study.
Students in financial hardship may apply to the Student Support Fund for help towards these expenses.