English Literature
The GCSE English Literature course requires candidates to explore texts from a personal perspective and offers an experience of Literature today and the literary heritage
What is the exam board and specification?
AQA GCSE English Literature 8702
What will you study?
You will continue to make progress with key literacy skills; reading, writing, oracy and accuracy.
You will study novels, poetry and drama, including Shakespeare. You will be given the opportunity to go to see texts in production to support your work in English, and you will read a variety of texts, some of your own choosing.
You will have the opportunity to respond and react to a variety of texts through analytical study and discussion.
You will study:
- Shakespeare
- The 19th-century novel
- The poetry anthology
- Modern texts
- Unseen poetry
How will you be assessed?
You will be assessed by your teacher throughout the two years as preparation for your exams. However, ultimately you will be assessed in two-terminal exams. The English Literature course is 100% exam assessed:
Paper 1: 1 hour 45 minutes – 64 marks – 40% (Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel)
Paper 2: 2 hours 15 minutes – 96 marks – 60% (Modern texts and poetry)
Achieving a higher grade pass (Grade 5 or higher) in English Literature would contribute towards the English Baccalaureate
What qualities do I need to be successful in the subject?
To be successful in this subject it is important that you are organised and resilient. Although English helps us to explore new worlds and is indeed an exciting and interesting subject, it can be challenging. Being able to manage desirable difficulties by responding well to feedback and direction are key to success.
What future opportunities can I have with this subject?
The skills developed in this course are vital for success in all walks for life. The ability to read and respond to demanding material and the ability to write fluently and cogently is equally important to doctors, lawyers, scientists, linguists and artists.
Who should I contact for further information?
Ms E Barnard, Head of English, e.barnard@kwschool.co.uk