A Level English Language and Literature

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Sixth Form: A Level English Language and Literature (AQA)

Entry Requirements

This course is open to students who have achieved at least a grade 5 in GCSE English Literature or Language.

Course Overview

The A Level English Language and Literature course offers students a rigorous and engaging programme of study that blends literary analysis with linguistic investigation. Students learn to examine how writers construct meaning and how language shapes ideas, identity and experience. We also enjoy lively discussions on how language conveys ideas such as: gender, power, identity and conflict.

Year 12 Content:

  • Introduction to stylistic analysis and narrative voice
  • Study of non-fiction texts from the “Remembered Places” anthology
  • Study of prose fiction in the “Imagined Worlds” unit- Handmaid’s Tale
  • Poetic Voices: analysis of a set poetry collection- Carol Ann Duffy
  • Start of independent NEA (coursework) project- students choose their own texts. Examples from recent years: 1984, selected songs by Radiohead, Never Let me Go, Adolescent (TV series), Dorian Gray.

Year 13 Content:

  • Dramatic Encounters: study of a full play from a literary-linguistic perspective- A Streetcar Named Desire
  • Study of a novel and writer’s style in order to rewrite extracts from the novel, demonstrating understanding of the writer’s style – The Great Gatsby
  • Completion of Non-Exam Assessment (original writing and analytical commentary on their own text choices)
  • Final revision and preparation for exams in June of Year 13
Assessment
  • Two final written examinations
  • One non-exam assessment (coursework) component
Wider Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to attend lectures, engage with contemporary texts and critical theory, and take part in enrichment including:

  • Sixth form reading societies
  • Creative writing competitions
  • University preparation and wider reading groups
Future Pathways

This course supports progression into a wide range of academic and creative pathways. It fosters analytical thinking, independence and communication skills valued in careers such as:

  • Journalism
  • Law
  • Education
  • Publishing
  • Media
  • Theatre and performing arts

Further Information

To find out more about any aspect of our English curriculum, please contact:

Davina Canham, Assistant Principal and Head of English
Email: davina.canham@ketteringscienceacademy.org

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