We offer the OCR A Level in English Literature which “encourages pupils to develop their interest in and enjoyment of a broad range of English literature. They apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation to engage critically and creatively” with a variety of texts. A linear course, there are two terminal examinations and a coursework portfolio to be completed. Class sizes are small which afford the opportunity to work closely with pupils and develop an excellent rapport –essential when discussing Literature. Typically, classes are taught by two enthusiastic specialists with teaching mostly conducted seminar-style with pupils expected to bring to class their own interpretations of texts. A willingness to read widely around the set texts is requisite. It is our custom to tailor the course to the pupils’ interests. In the recent past, the course has looked like this: Drama and Poetry pre-1900: This is a two-and-a-half-hour examination. It is a closed book which means pupils must learn the quotations and critical comments for their exam. The texts we commonly consider are Shakespeare’s The Tempest; Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi and The Collected Poems of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Comparative and Contextual Study: Another two-and-a-half-hour exam, this paper requires pupils to demonstrate their expertise in a particular genre. For the past two years, pupils have chosen Dystopia (1984 and The Handmaid’s Tale). Other options include The Gothic and American Literature. Coursework: Pupils must produce two tasks worth 20% of the overall marks. The first task is a close analysis of a passage from a text. The second is a comparative essay wherein pupils showcase their knowledge of both texts and their contexts. We like to allow for personal choice and interest. Previously pupils have studied The Power, The Crucible, Lord of the Rings, Beowulf or The History Boys, Birdsong, and WW1 Poetry. Literature pupils leave with an ability to analyse forensically and argue convincingly –key portable skills in the modern marketplace. Indeed, English Literature A Level is considered a facilitating qualification, one which opens many doors of opportunity post-18. Whilst it is true that some of our pupils go on to study English at university, the possibilities are endless: law, criminology, land economy, MFL, architecture, ppe; these are just a few of the disciplines pursued by our Sixth Formers in recent years.
A Minimum of 6 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above to include English and Mathematics. At least a Grade 6 is obtained in the subjects the student would like to study in the Sixth Form. International students will be asked to sit a test in English and Mathematics.
About Education Provider
| Region | South West |
| Local Authority | Plymouth |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | Day £16,824 - £19,929; Boarding £27,531 - £39,330 |
| Sixth Form Fee | Unknown |
| Address | Ford Park, Plymouth, PL4 6RN |
We offer the OCR A Level in English Literature which “encourages pupils to develop their interest in and enjoyment of a broad range of English literature. They apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation to engage critically and creatively” with a variety of texts. A linear course, there are two terminal examinations and a coursework portfolio to be completed. Class sizes are small which afford the opportunity to work closely with pupils and develop an excellent rapport –essential when discussing Literature. Typically, classes are taught by two enthusiastic specialists with teaching mostly conducted seminar-style with pupils expected to bring to class their own interpretations of texts. A willingness to read widely around the set texts is requisite. It is our custom to tailor the course to the pupils’ interests. In the recent past, the course has looked like this: Drama and Poetry pre-1900: This is a two-and-a-half-hour examination. It is a closed book which means pupils must learn the quotations and critical comments for their exam. The texts we commonly consider are Shakespeare’s The Tempest; Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi and The Collected Poems of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Comparative and Contextual Study: Another two-and-a-half-hour exam, this paper requires pupils to demonstrate their expertise in a particular genre. For the past two years, pupils have chosen Dystopia (1984 and The Handmaid’s Tale). Other options include The Gothic and American Literature. Coursework: Pupils must produce two tasks worth 20% of the overall marks. The first task is a close analysis of a passage from a text. The second is a comparative essay wherein pupils showcase their knowledge of both texts and their contexts. We like to allow for personal choice and interest. Previously pupils have studied The Power, The Crucible, Lord of the Rings, Beowulf or The History Boys, Birdsong, and WW1 Poetry. Literature pupils leave with an ability to analyse forensically and argue convincingly –key portable skills in the modern marketplace. Indeed, English Literature A Level is considered a facilitating qualification, one which opens many doors of opportunity post-18. Whilst it is true that some of our pupils go on to study English at university, the possibilities are endless: law, criminology, land economy, MFL, architecture, ppe; these are just a few of the disciplines pursued by our Sixth Formers in recent years.
A Minimum of 6 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above to include English and Mathematics. At least a Grade 6 is obtained in the subjects the student would like to study in the Sixth Form. International students will be asked to sit a test in English and Mathematics.