English Literature - AS/A2 AQA Syllabus B
Why choose English Literature?
If you love reading then English Literature is the course for you! During the course you will have the opportunity to explore and share ideas about some great English writing and develop your own ability to express yourself in a cogent, relevant and well-organised way.
What can I expect to learn?
The course involves the study of a wide range of literature including novels, plays and poetry from different periods of history. One of the texts will be a Shakespeare play. As well as developing your analytical skills, you will be trained to write fluent, perceptive and well-structured essays. You will be encouraged to argue and debate and develop your own personal response to a text. Group work is central to the study of English Literature and is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the course.
Which subjects combine well with English Literature?
History, law, modern languages, media and art are often chosen by students who take English Literature. Some students choose to combine it with English Language. It cannot be taken with the combined English Language and Literature course.
Where does this lead? What can I do next?
English Literature students often take up a humanities course at university. There is a wide range of careers that English Literature students follow; these include teaching, journalism, publishing, management, television, the law and marketing.
What background or achievements do I need?
A minimum of a grade C in English Language and a grade C in English Literature are required though a grade B is preferred. Students should have a keen interest in Literature and enjoy reading independently.
"In order to write about life, you must first live it"
Ernest Hemingway
