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English Literature A Level

Updated: Oct 2

The English Literature A-Level is an essay-based qualification which allows you to dive in three genres; drama, prose and poetry.


Texts are from a range of different periods and cultures allowing students to develop their literature analysis and evaluative skills. The skills gained from this A-Level are highly desirable at universities, particularly in the humanities.


Students typically study a minimum of 8 key pre-1900 and post-1900 texts, with 2 from each genre of drama, prose and poetry, however, wider reading is strongly encouraged to aid understanding. Different exam boards will have different specifications.


Format

Independent reading and essay-based subject.



Key Skills Acquired

Analysis, problem solving, Critical thinking, reading, writing, literary analysis, presenting and communicating coherent arguments


Complimentary A-Levels

History, Classics, Politics, Modern Languages, Sociology, Psychology, Media Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies, Law



Typical Assessment

Open-book and closed-book exams and coursework.



Exam Boards

England, Wales and Northern Ireland Exam Boards: AQA, CCEA, OCR, Pearson Edexcel (UK)


Scottish Exam Board (for Highers): SQA


International Exam Boards: Cambridge International Education (CIE), Pearson Edexcel (International)



Career Options

Publishing, Editing, Marketing, PR, Communications, Journalism, Academia, Teaching, Politics, Lawyer

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