| Exam Board | Specification | Title | Head of Department |
|---|---|---|---|
| AQA | 7712 | A Level English Literature | Mrs M Whibley |
Introduction
English Literature 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 encourages students to explore the relationships that exist between texts and the contexts within which they are written, received, and understood. Studying texts within a shared context enables students to investigate and connect them, drawing out patterns of similarity and difference using a variety of reading strategies and perspectives. English Literature A privileges the process of making autonomous meaning, encouraging students to debate and challenge the interpretations of other readers as they develop their own informed personal responses.
Given the spirit of the specification, rather than imposing a uniform list of prescribed set texts, various options are offered in terms of both time period and genre. Across the course, students will study texts both diachronically (produced across a very broad time period) and synchronically (produced within a clearly defined time period).
Aims of the Course
The A-Level must encourage students to develop their interest in and enjoyment of literature and literary studies as they:
- read widely and independently both set texts and others that they have selected for themselves
- engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them
- develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation
- explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others’ interpretations of them.
Assessment
Paper 1: Love through the ages
Study of three texts: one poetry and one prose text, of which one must be written pre-1900, and one Shakespeare play. Examination will include two unseen poems.
Assessed
- written exam: 3 hours
- open book in Section C only
- 75 marks
40% of A-level
Paper 2: Texts in shared contexts
Option 2A: WW1 and its aftermath
Study of three texts: one prose, one poetry, and one drama, of which one must be written post-2000.
Examination will include an unseen prose extract
Assessed
- written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
- open book
- 75 marks
- 40% of A-level
Non-examination Assessment: Independent Critical Study: texts across time
Comparative critical study of two texts, at least one of which must have been written pre-1900.
One extended essay (2500 words) and a bibliography
Assessed
- 50 marks
- 20% of A-level
- assessed by teachers
- moderated by AQA
Next Steps
The successful completion of this course will allow you to progress on to a wide range of related higher education courses and could lead you into careers in journalism, marketing, and publishing.