English Literature - WJEC Eduqas A Level

Head of Faculty: Miss M. Zarins

English Literature is one of the more popular A Levels offered by the college. All teachers are experienced and we get consistently good results. Students enjoy their lessons as we use a range of teaching methods, where group discussion is encouraged. All groups are taught by two experienced teachers, and will study a range of texts from 1300 to the present day.

Why study this course?

This specification is based on a conviction that the study of literature should encourage enjoyment of literary studies based on an informed personal response to a range of texts. It provides learners with an introduction to the discipline of advanced literary studies and presents opportunities for reading widely and for making creative and informed responses to each of the major literary genres of poetry, prose and drama.

Aims of the course

The WJEC EDUQAS A level in English Literature encourages learners to develop their interest in and enjoyment of literature and literary studies as they:

• read widely and independently both set texts and coursework texts

• engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them

• develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation

• explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others’ interpretations of them

• undertake independent and sustained studies to deepen their appreciation and understanding of English Literature, including its changing traditions.

Course outline

Students will study a minimum of eight texts at A Level, and experience a wide range of reading in poetry, prose and drama.

The course is comprised of four units of work:

Component One – 2 hour exam: Poetry Pre 1900 & Post 1900

Component Two – 2 hour exam: Shakespeare & Section B: Drama

Component Three – 2 hour exam: Unseen prose and unseen poetry

Component Four - One 2500-3500 word comparative coursework essay

A wide range of degree courses and careers in areas such as Journalism, Teaching, Social Media and Law. English Literature is a well-respected A level by all universities.