English Language and Literature

Course summary

Why study English language and literature? A Level English language and literature presents clear continuity from GCSE English and GCSE English literature with the study of literary and non-fiction written and spoken texts. The course also enables students to develop their creativity and expertise by producing their own original writing. Students explore texts of greater variety and challenge than those encountered at GCSE and learn to apply linguistic and literary concepts and methods to their analysis of texts. What will you study? Year 12 Throughout Year 12, you will be taught to explore the key narrative themes of ‘The Great Gatsby’, analysing Fitzgerald’s sophisticated and elegiac style. You will then take a journey through Duffy’s ‘Rapture’, an anthology of poems that explores her inner most thoughts about love – the highs and the lows! Provided by the examination board, you will also study a non-fiction anthology, extending your linguistic analysis by exploring a variety of written and spoken texts, ranging from advertisements to political speeches. Year 13 Exploring literary concepts is a key feature in Unit 2, using ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ to consider the reception and the impact a drama text. The Non-Examined Assessment unit allows you freedom to explore non-fiction texts on themes that interest you and then recreate your own non-fiction writing style. Those interested in developing their writing skills will be pleased to see there is also a creative writing element in Unit 3.