Aims of the course

In English Literature, students will learn about the manifestations of literature as a powerful mode of writing across cultures and throughout history. They will develop an understanding of the creativity of writers and readers, and the ways in which language can give rise to meaning. Through close analysis of texts, students will consider their own interpretations, as well as the critical perspectives of others, encouraging the exploration of how viewpoints are shaped by cultural belief systems and how meanings are negotiated within them. Students will engage in critical response and creative production, which will help shape their awareness of how texts work to influence the reader.

Ultimately, this course empowers students to consider how literature represents and constructs social and cultural identities. It allows them to communicate and collaborate in a confident and creative way, fostering a lifelong interest in, and enjoyment of, literature.

Course outline

At higher level, thirteen works of literature are studied, while nine are studied at standard level, selected from a range of places, time periods, genre and literary forms. All students are required to deliver an oral presentation in which they evaluate two of the works studied in relation to a common global issue, analysing and evaluating how their unique perspectives are constructed by the authors’ choices. At higher level, students are also required to produce a 1500-word essay which demonstrates knowledge and understanding of one of the literary texts or works studied and interprets it in relation to a line of inquiry they have selected. The study of all texts, at both levels, equips the students to tackle both exam papers, one which introduces previously unseen texts, and one which invites comparison on previously studied works. Alongside the development of these crucial skills, students will engage in debate exploring a range of global issues in relation to literary texts: culture, identity and community; beliefs, values and education; politics, power and justice; art, creativity and imagination; science, technology and the environment.

Assessment outline

Individual oral: 30% Standard level; 20% Higher level

Autumn term, Yr 13.

Essay: 20% Higher level only

Drafted Y12, completed Yr 13.

Exams

End of Yr 13.

• Paper 1: Guided literary analysis - 35%
  Students explore previously unseen literary passages and write a response, evaluating how writer’s choices contribute to meaning. Higher level students respond to two texts; standard level students select one of two.

• Paper 2: Comparative essay - 35% Standard; 25% Higher level
  Students produce a written comparison of two works studied, demonstrating knowledge and understanding and interpreting implications, similarities and differences, in connection with a given focus.

Careers links

Studying English Literature opens up a wealth of opportunities. Not only do students scrutinise and debate a variety of texts, acquiring knowledge of literary movements, periods and critical approaches that have shaped the way we view literature today, but they also develop comprehensive written and spoken communication skills, becoming adept at arguing a point, framing a narrative and analysing various levels of meaning. These skills lend themselves to careers in journalism, copywriting, publishing, advertising, marketing, public relations, law, teaching, researching, editing and proofreading, as well as other careers requiring a grasp of communication, analysis and evaluation.