English Literature – A Level

A LEVEL · ENGLISH LITERATURE

Read deeply. Debate ideas. Write with precision.

Study canonical and contemporary literature, explore how texts reflect and challenge society, and develop an independent critical voice.

QUALIFICATION
A Level

EXAM BOARD
AQA

DURATION
Two years

ASSESSMENT
80% exams, 20% coursework

Why choose English Literature?

English Literature broadens your cultural understanding while strengthening discussion, research, analysis and extended writing. You will examine set texts and unseen extracts from the ancient world to the present day.

What you will study

Aspects of tragedy
Othello, Death of a Salesman and selected poems by John Keats.

Political and social protest writing
The Handmaid’s Tale, The Kite Runner and Songs of Innocence and Experience.

Independent critical study
Coursework on two chosen texts using theoretical approaches such as feminism, Marxism or ecocriticism.

Entry requirements

Standard PH6 entry requirements: at least five GCSEs at grades 9–5.

English Language and English Literature
Grade 6 or above in both subjects.

This course suits you if…

You have a passion for reading and literature.
You enjoy lively debate and collaborative discussion.
You can develop a clear, evidence-based interpretation.
You want to refine your academic and creative writing.

How you will be assessed

Component

Content

Weighting

Paper 1

Aspects of Tragedy

40%

Paper 2

Elements of Political, Social and Protest Writing

40%

Non-exam assessment

Two coursework pieces on chosen poetry and prose texts

20%

Where English Literature can take you

English Literature is a strong foundation for degrees and careers requiring excellent communication, research and analytical ability.

Journalism Teaching Law Academia Media Politics