A Level: English Literature

The study of English Literature at Advanced level encompasses the study of prose, poetry and drama from the time of Shakespeare to the present day.

The subject is a rewarding experience for students who love reading. It furnishes students with skills of analysis, interpretation, discussion, decision making and research.

Examination Board: AQA (7717)

Paper 1 -

• Section A: One passage-based question on set Shakespeare text (25 marks)
• Section B: One essay question on set Shakespeare text (25 marks)
• Section C: One essay question linking two texts (25 marks)

Assessed written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, closed book, 40% of A-level

Paper 2 -

• Section A: One compulsory question on an unseen passage (25 marks)
• Section B: One essay question on set text (25 marks)
• Section C: One essay question which connects two texts (25 marks)

Assessed written exam: 3 hours, open book, 40% of A-level, to include unseen element

Non-Exam Assessment: Theory and Independence

Study of two texts: one poetry and one prose text, informed by study of the Critical Anthology, two essays of 1250 -1500 words. One essay can be re-creative. The re-creative piece will be accompanied by a commentary.

20% of A level. Assessed by teachers, moderated by AQA

For more in depth details and information about the course, please visit – STP A-Level English Literature

Students will be expected to have met St Paul’s entry requirements of 2 Grade 5’s and 4 Grade 4’s. A minimum of grade 4 in English and Maths is essential for all courses.

English Literature A-level is an essential subject for an English degree. Some drama, media studies, American studies and law degree courses will also ask for an English literature A-level. The Russell Group Informed Choices guide also recommends English Literature A-level for those who want to take degree courses in classics, French and other modern languages, teacher training, history, history of art, politics and religious studies.

A degree in English Literature can lead to careers within advertising, publishing, journalism, teaching, TV and Film, healthcare, sales and many more.