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A level English Literature

St Margaret Ward Catholic Academy

St Margaret Ward Catholic Academy, Little Chell Lane, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 6LZ

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent
Level 3
Languages, Literature and Culture

Available start dates

Available start dates

Thursday, 01 October 2026
St Margaret Ward Catholic Academy
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

A Level English Literature focuses on developing students' understanding and appreciation of literary texts through close reading, critical analysis and exploration of context.  Students will study a range of genres, including poetry, drama, and prose from different time periods, and explore how literary works reflect and shape the world.  The course emphasises independent study, critical thinking, and the ability to form and articulate informed interpretations of texts.

Course Details

Paper 1: Love Through the Ages. · Section A: Shakespeare—Othello · Section B: Unseen Poetry · Section C: Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and a collection of modern love poetry.

Paper 2: Texts in Shared Contexts. Modern Times: Literature from 1945 to the present day. · Section A: A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams · Section B: Feminine Gospels by Carol Ann Duffy and The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood.

Unseen Prose. Non-examined Assessment - A 2500 word essay comparing two texts. One text is ‘taught’ the other is chosen by the student. The task is formulated by the student in discussion with the teacher.

How will it be delivered and assessed?

The course is delivered through a combination of  traditional lessons, lectures and workshops.  There is the expectation of extensive independent research and wider

Entry requirements

Minimum grade 6 in English Language and English Literature GCSE

Equipment required

You will be required to purchase copies of the set texts.  The poetry Anthology is provided.

Your next steps...

Read widely from a variety of genres and time periods.

For more courses like this, check our courses page.