English Literature AS and A Level

Please make sure you have checked the entry requirements before submitting your application. Please also be aware that we use an Attainment 8 requirement for students choosing to do Science and Maths subjects. This is explained further on our website: https://www.taptonschool.co.uk/page/?title=Subjects&pid=69

We will use the message function to contact you about your application, so please keep an eye on this.

At AS Level, students will focus on Literary Genres, studying Aspects of Tragedy. Four texts must be studied: one Shakespeare play, one other drama text, one prose text and one selection of poetry. All texts will be selected from a prescribed list.

At A Level, students will study literary genres: students at Tapton are studying Aspects of Tradegy. Students will write about Othello, Death of a Salesman and selected poems from Keats. The second paper is Text and Genres and students will be studying Political and Social Protest writing. Students will study a Doll's House, Blakes Poetry and The Kite Runner. The Non-Examination Assessment unit comprises of two essays linking to the Critical Theory - one essay looking at a poetry text and one prose. These texts can be the student's own choice of text.

You must enjoy reading and have a genuine interest in literature of all styles and periods, with a willingness to extend and develop your range. You will need well established writing skills, an open mind and a willingness to enter into debate and discussion. You will need to be able to manage a demanding workload.

Links with other subjects

English Literature provides an excellent complement to Arts, the Performing Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. It provides a refreshing contrast with maths and science-based subjects. As a discipline which demands rigorous analytical and fluent communicative skills, it enhances all Post 16 study.

At AS Level: Students will be assessed by two written examinations, each worth 50% of the final AS grade. Each examination lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes, and comprises of two distinct tasks.

At A Level: Students will be assessed by two written examinations, each worth 40% of the final A Level grade and a Non Examined Assessment worth 20%. The first examination is 2.5 hours, and comprises three distinct tasks and the second examination is 3 hours and again there are three distinct tasks.

Extension and enrichment opportunities

Conferences, Lectures, University Master Classes, Visiting Speakers, Workshops, Theatre visits.

6 in English Literature and 5 in English Language.

Tapton School's minimum entry requirements for all students: Grade 5 in English Language; Grade 4 in Mathematics and three other GCSEs at grade 4 and above.

This course is particularly suitable for those students who wish to study English, Linguistics or English Studies in Higher Education. It offers a wide range of options with or without a degree: Law, Accountancy, Media, Banking, Local Government, Civil Service, Personnel / Human Resources, Journalism – and Teaching.