English Literature
OVERVIEW
Studying English Literature enables pupils to engage with some of the greatest literary works from the last 600 years, considering historical contexts and evolving critical perspectives.
English is recognised as an excellent preparation for almost any university course: the ability to analyse in detail and with
a wide-ranging knowledge and understanding, and planning and communication skills, are important in any academic field. In this way, English complements most A-level options, including sciences and social sciences. Every year a number of King’s pupils go on to read English and related courses at top universities; these qualifications support entry into professions including the media, law, marketing, the civil service, industry and information
management.
Three members of staff teach each set, delivering the different components of the two-year course, so pupils benefit from a variety of input and styles. For those who have enjoyed the subject at GCSE/IGCSE, one attraction should be obvious: it’s fun. English offers the intellectual excitement and satisfaction generated from a sustained critical reading of very diverse texts, and through these works, studying literature from the mediaeval Chaucer to the 21st Century, we encounter a great breadth of humanity through time. A-level study places increased emphasis on context and both the historical and theoretical reception of texts; the spoken and written exploration of ideas, characters, literary form and themes, in novels, plays and poetry, is part of a wider study of human culture and experience.
Most important for success are an engagement with reading and a detailed consideration of the literature and language we encounter in the core texts and more widely. In component 2 this includes a short unseen novel extract. Independence, imagination and initiative always help, but experience has shownthat with consistent effort and following advice carefully, all King’s pupils can succeed at A-level. English Literature (OCR) English Literature (OCR) Lessons will often take a seminar format, with discussion of the text being studied; it may be read in advance, discussed in class, or performed if a drama text. There is usually one piece of written work, research notes or an essay, to submit each week. The department also organise trips to relevant locations, and where possible, theatre performances: in recent seasons we have been to Bath, Plymouth, Exeter, Cheltenham, Oxford, London, Stratford, and on trips for Lower Sixth to Hardy’s birthplace and Max Gate, and Stourhead House as part of Sixth Form study. The English Society, with meetings every half term, offers a programme led by staff, Sixth Formers, and external speakers. Pupils can take a lead in presenting, or helping organise events, and in writing for the Pelican Post school newspaper.
OUR SYLLABUS
The course involves three component areas, each with a distinct focus.
Component 01 – Shakespeare, Drama & Poetry Pre-1900 (40%)
- Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure: Extract analysis and essay of this complex exploration of justice and morality.
- Comparative essay on Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House and Chaucer’s The Merchant’s Tale
Component 02 – Comparative and Contextual Study: American Literature 1880-1940 (40%)
- Critical appreciation of an unseen extract
- Comparative essay comparing two cornerstones of American literature: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitgerald and The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Component 03 – Coursework (20%)
- A critical or creative response of Thomas Hardy’s Poems of 1912-13, reflecting on grief and love.
- A comparative essay on two texts (Time and the Conways by J.B. Priestley and Atonement by Ian McEwan)
WHY STUDY ENGLISH?
Studying English fosters intellectual curiosity and analytical skills. Literature provides insight into culture, history, and human nature, developing critical thinking and articulate self-expression. The subject is broad, covering themes from medieval to contemporary literature, encouraging debate and independent thought. English is recognised as an excellent preparation for almost any university course: the ability to analyse in detail and with a wide-ranging knowledge and understanding, and planning and communication skills, are important in any academic field. In this way, English complements most A-level options, including sciences and social sciences. For those who have enjoyed the subject at GCSE, one attraction should be obvious: it’s fun.
Students attend theatre performances of relevant productions, and visit locations relevant to coursework, such as Thomas Hardy’s cottage and home.
There are numerous ways in which English students develop their skills and enhance their experience:
- Sixth Form English Society presentations
- Contributions to Pelican Post newspaper
- Debating society participation and competitions
- Extensive reading programmes and book clubs
- Advanced reading, writing, and analytical skills
- Precise communication and structured argumentation
- The ability to articulate ideas confidently in discussions
- A strong foundation for university and professional careers
English leads to diverse career paths, including publishing, journalism, law, marketing, civil service, teaching, finance, and media. The analytical and writing skills gained are also invaluable for STEM students.
Laura Bates, who progressed from King’s to study English literature at St John’s College, Cambridge and then became a notable writer and founder of the Everyday Sexism Project.
