English Literature

A Level

English Literature is a fascinating, engaging and thought provoking A Level. In this subject, you will explore themes fundamental to humanity such as love and loss, investigating a wide range of texts to understand how authors communicate these themes with their audience whilst developing your own views.

Throughout this traditional subject you will be invited to participate in group discussions and debates about the great works of literature you will study, building skills that will support you throughout your career.

The examining body for this qualification is AQA.

Specific requirements

You’ll need to meet the entry criteria for your chosen Pathway.

For more information about the pathways, please click here.

HNC takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. This information is for guidance only. The College reserves the right to update and amend course information and entry criteria as and when necessary. Please note that from time to time we may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on applicant demand and other factors. Please check this website for the latest information and our current course offer.

Your learning experience

In this course you will explore how authors express themselves, learning how literature has changed the world through novels, plays, poems and other literary forms. You will read six different authors which include:

  • Texts linked to the theme of protest: Songs of Innocence and of Experience by William Blake, The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, and A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen
  • Texts linked to the themes of tragedy including Shakespeare’s Othello, Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, and a selection of poetry by John Keats
  • Texts for your coursework include reading a further poetry text and a novel independently chosen by you (with advice from your teacher)

 

An enriching experience

Studying A Level English Literature at HNC is an enriching experience. You will have plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and interests, broadening your horizons and building your cultural capital. These experiences are integral to life at HNC and will help you to stand
out from the crowd. Some of the experiences our A Level English students enjoy, include:

  • Attending shows and performances in local theatres
  • Participating in inspirational and valuable guest workshops and university lecturers
  • The opportunity to participate in an overnight trip to London to see a performance at Shakespeare’s Globe theatre
  • Take part in lunchtime enrichments such as Book Club, Medieval Calligraphy and Journalism

 

Enlightening Opportunities

We are proud of the unique experiences that are available to our students both inside and outside of the classroom. Our subject specialists will instil in you a love of learning, and challenge you to develop the required skills you’ll need to achieve the life-changing qualifications that will lead you to your dream career. Throughout your studies, your teachers will create an environment where you will be encouraged to discuss a wide-range of topics which will support you to develop an enlightened approach to the world around you. These discussions will be linked to your passions, study programme and your wider career ambitions.

 

How will you be assessed?

This course is assessed via examination and coursework.

Where does it lead?

English Literature is a traditional subject which is valued highly for the transferable skills it develops; it is a well-respected qualification that supports a wide range of exciting destinations and careers. Of course, this subject has a natural link to careers such as Journalism, Teaching, Advertising, Human Resources, or even Law, as it develops a wide range of transferable skills including the ability to debate, and articulate your views. A Level English Literature students recently progressed to university to study subjects such as:

  • English
  • English Literature
  • Law
  • Journalism
  • Creative Writing
  • History
Perfect pairings

Watch our lesson taster

Good to Know
Your experience will develop a wide range of transferable skills such as the ability to analyse, persuade and contrast an argument. Your lessons involve plenty of discussion, debate and working with others. You’ll hone your debate skills, and broaden your horizons
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