English - VI Form

Subjects

Why choose English?


The study of English Literature at A Level helps you to develop a number of subject-specific as well as transferable skills by encouraging in-depth, critical and contextual thinking in response to a range of literary works. 


Reading, discussing and writing are key. You will be expected not just to read, but to develop the skill of thinking critically about what you read and of analysing texts to work out how the author’s use of situation and language create powerful impressions. You will need to explore your own emotional response to writing and be able to discuss it, in class and through your own writing, and to argue constructively for your point of view.


Through prose, poetry and drama students will learn to understand more about the cultural framework of the world they live in today, and the way in which writers through the ages have sought to explore social issues through their writing.


What study skills do you need?


  • A genuine interest in reading, exploring and analysing a range of literary texts and critical perspectives, both within and beyond the course
  • Essays skills: writing critically and analytically and sustaining an argument 
  • A desire to explore texts in depth through discussion and to undertake significant independent study to examine texts and their contexts


What are the aims of the course?


To inspire enthusiasm for the subject and an appreciation of its past and continuing social, cultural, political and economic importance. To provide an intellectually stimulating and supportive learning and studying environment. 


To consolidate a love of reading and create an environment for challenging debate and intellectual discussion.


GCSE requirements


At least a grade 7 in both English and English Literature GCSE.


Course content


Across the course, you will study a range of poetry, prose and drama. You will produce a piece of comparative coursework on two texts of your choice, linked thematically.

 

Set texts include:


  • One Shakespeare play (Hamlet). 
  • Pre-1900 poetry and prose (Wuthering Heights, Christina Rossetti poetry) 
  • Post-1945 texts including prose, drama and poetry (e.g. Mrs Dalloway; The Importance of Being Earnest). 


Theatre visits and study of filmed versions of the texts form part of our course; opportunities to attend related academic lectures and educational trips are also offered. 


Further education and career opportunities


English at A level, highly regarded by universities and employers, provides a valuable foundation for degree courses and a plethora of professions. An English degree traditionally leads to careers in Law, Journalism, Teaching, Media, Advertising and Publishing, but in reality there are few career options where English will not be an asset. The analytical and communication skills that an English qualification provides are fully ‘transferable’ and useful in almost any occupation.


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