English Literature

English Literature

Exam board: AQA
Course code:
7712

https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/a-level/english-7712/specification

Entry requirement: Grade 6 in English (Language or Literature)

 

Subject Content

Paper 1, ‘Love through the Ages,’ and Paper 2, ‘Texts in Shared Contexts,’ are both covered across the two years.  Each unit is delivered by a different teacher reflecting their specialism.

In the first year the focus is primarily on developing knowledge of the set texts and the core skills required at A Level.

The second year is dedicated to honing these skills through exam practice, embedding knowledge of the texts and revising all aspects of the course ready for the examinations.

Course Assessment

Paper 1: Love through the Ages

3 hours; 75 marks; 40% of A Level.
Section A: Shakespeare - one passage-based question with linked essay.
Section B: Unseen poetry - compulsory essay on two unseen poems.
Section C: Comparing texts - one essay question linking two texts.

Non-exam Assessment

Independent critical study, texts across time, 50 marks, 20% of A Level, assessed by teacher and externally moderated. A comparative critical study of two texts, at least one of which must have been written pre-1900. This takes the form of a 2500 word essay.

Paper 2: Texts in Shared Contexts

2 hours 30 minutes; 75 marks; 40% of A Level.
Section A: Set texts- one essay question on set text
Section B: Contextual linking

  • One compulsory question on an unseen extract
  • One essay question linking two texts.

Higher Education and Careers

The competences needed for literary study are those needed in most professions: clear thinking, close scrutiny of evidence, arguing a case and being responsive to the views of others. The subject is useful for most of the careers normally open to non-scientists and is well respected by universities.

Qualifications in English Literature may lead to a wide range of subject related careers e.g. editing, publishing, advertising, drama, journalism, television production, media management, librarianship, as well as careers in other areas.