KS5 English Literature

The A Level English Literature curriculum in the UK is designed for students aged 16 to 18, typically in their final two years of secondary education. This course builds on the skills developed at GCSE level, with an emphasis on deep literary analysis, critical thinking, and understanding of literary theory. Here is an overview of the main components of the A Level English Literature curriculum:

Core Components

1. Set Texts: Students study a variety of set texts, which typically include:
   • Shakespeare: A detailed study of one of Shakespeare’s plays, focusing on themes, language, and dramatic techniques.
   • Pre-1900 Prose and Drama: Analysis of significant literary works from the pre-1900 period, including both prose and drama.
   • Modern Literature: Examination of 20th and 21st-century literature, including novels, plays, and poetry.
   • Poetry: Study of poetry from different periods, often including both pre-and post-1900 works.
2. Comparative and Contextual Study:
   • Comparative Analysis: Comparing themes, characterisations, and literary techniques across different texts.
   • Contextual Understanding: Understanding the historical, cultural, and social contexts in which the texts were written and received.
3. Critical Theory and Perspectives:
   • Literary Criticism: Introduction to various critical theories and perspectives, such as feminism, Marxism, psychoanalysis, and post-colonialism.
   • Application of Theory: Applying these theories to the analysis of literary texts.

Skills Development

• Analytical Skills: Detailed textual analysis, identifying themes, motifs, and literary techniques.
• Critical Thinking: Evaluating and interpreting texts through various critical lenses.
• Essay Writing: Developing coherent, well-structured essays that argue a point of view and support it with textual evidence.
• Research Skills: Conducting independent research to understand texts and their contexts better.
• Presentation Skills: Presenting literary analyses and arguments clearly and persuasively.

Assessment

• Examinations: Typically, the A Level assessment includes several written exams covering:
  • Paper 1: Drama: Focuses on the study of a Shakespeare play and another drama text.
  • Paper 2: Prose: Includes comparative analysis of two prose texts, one of which is pre-1900.
  • Paper 3: Poetry: Covers the study of poetry from different periods, with questions on set texts and unseen poetry.
• Coursework: Non-exam assessment (NEA) component, usually consisting of:
  • Extended Essay: A comparative essay on texts of the student’s choice, allowing for in-depth study and research.

Key Themes and Topics

• Human Experience: Exploration of universal themes such as love, death, identity, and conflict.
• Society and Culture: Examination of how literature reflects and critiques social and cultural norms.
• Historical Context: Understanding the influence of historical events and movements on literary production.
• Language and Style: Analysis of the author’s use of language, style, and literary techniques.

Additional Components

• Cross-Curricular Links: Integration with subjects like history, philosophy, and art to provide a richer understanding of the texts.
• ICT Skills: Use of digital tools for research, analysis, and presentation, promoting digital literacy alongside literary study.

Career and Further Education Opportunities

• Higher Education: Preparation for degrees in English Literature, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature, and related fields.
• Career Pathways: Skills developed in A Level English Literature are valuable in careers such as journalism, teaching, publishing, law, public relations, and arts administration.

This curriculum aims to foster a deep appreciation for literature, enhance students’ analytical and critical thinking skills, and prepare them for further academic study and a variety of career opportunities. It encourages students to engage with texts on a profound level, developing a nuanced understanding of literary works and their contexts.