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English Literature A Level

Develop your analytical and critical thinking skills through the study of poetry, drama and prose across different historical periods and cultural contexts. You will explore literature through philosophical, historical, postcolonial and psychoanalytic perspectives, examining how writers shape meaning and reflect, or challenge, the societies in which they write. Through close textual analysis, independent research, and critical
debate, you will learn to construct sophisticated arguments and engage with a range of interpretations.

What can fiction reveal about identity, power and what it means to be human? Who decides what texts are considered ‘literary’? And why does literature
still matter in a rapidly changing, technological world? Join us to explore these questions, and more!

On this course you will:
– Study a wide variety of texts, covering the major literary genres of poetry, prose and drama
– Read a range of literature by a variety of authors in different historical periods, considering how the political, social and literary context can illuminate writers’ ideas
– Consider how structure, form and language in texts creates meaning
– Enhance your analysis of different narrative techniques, evaluation of literary criticism, and draw comparisons between different texts
– Develop your ability to research and cultivate a reasoned argument
– Have the opportunity to attend theatre trips, author talks, events and take part in creative and academic writing competitions

This course can be combined with others and goes particularly well with other Humanities and Arts subjects.

Apply for this course

Select from the start date/s below…

Sep 2027 : North Devon : Full-time
Course Code : FTB013 (2027) Add to favourite list
Level : Level 3
Duration : 2 Years
North Devon Campus Apply

Course details

Assessments

Year 1 – AS English Literature is 100%

external examination:

Paper 1: Poetry and Drama (40%)

Paper 2: Prose (60%)



Year 2 – A Level English Literature

is 80% external examination, and

20% coursework.

Paper 1: Drama (30%)

Paper 2: Prose (20%)

Paper 3: Poetry (30%)



Coursework:

A 2,500 – 3,000 word essay (20%)

Entry Requirements

To be accepted onto this Level 3 programme, you must hold at least eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including GCSE Maths and English Language.

Progression

You could go on to university level education, and/or a range of careers. English Literature is highly regarded by universities, and particularly sought after due to the academic writing skills you will develop on the course.

Study Programme

Every full-time student at North Devon College will have their own Study Programme which will include:

– Your academic or vocational qualification.

– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.

– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.

– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.

– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.

– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.

Why North Devon College should be your first choice

North Devon College offers quality education and training across North Devon. We aim to provide outstanding learning, excellent facilities, strong connections to employers and a supportive environment to help you fulfil your education goals and set you on your path to the career of your dreams.

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SUPPORTIVE

We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can flourish and feel a valued member of the college and wider community. 

INSPIRING

Our teaching spaces and facilities are some of the best in the region, providing stimulating and true-to-life learning environments. 

CONNECTED

We’ll provide you with the experiences you need to be ready for employment or the next step on your educational journey.

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