a level english coursework

All about A level English Language – course information

What's a level english language about.

A Level English Language has become a popular and academically prestigious qualification, one that has grown significantly in recent years as an increasingly diverse range of students becomes fascinated by how we communicate and interact with others in different contexts. As a pathway to university study, English Language is ideal for most disciplines as it brings together elements of the social sciences, humanities and creative subjects while requiring forensic analytical study of texts, transcripts, and even multi-modal forms like messaging. Students are, equally, encouraged to explore their own writing by producing original material across a range of styles and genres. Budding journalists often find the material generated by the course forming the basis of their first published material, while the surge in the number of students enrolling for separate and combined English Language/Linguistics courses in universities demonstrates their engagement with the preparatory A Level course.

What sort of work is involved?

Variety is the key here - most courses will require you to explore the effects of written texts in a range of registers and styles and they will, in turn, ask you to experiment with the drafting and editing of creative and re-creative material of your own based, in part, upon these models. There is scope for detailed discussion of the material in class, for extensive independent reading of articles by linguists and those involved in complementary areas of study, for example sociology and child psychology, as well as interesting fieldwork, requiring students to collect information and conduct interviews with members of the public regarding language in everyday use. Essays will form a major part of the assessment profile, but these will often be based on stimulus material available in the examination, and will focus on the evaluative process as much as the technical accuracy of the student’s writing. You do not need to be a voracious reader to benefit from the course; neither does your own writing need to be flawless!

What background do I need?

A good pass grade in GCSE English Language - widely recognised as a 5 - will be sufficient to enable students to progress and develop. Although some of the A Level material will build on work done at GCSE, much is new and therefore a willingness to learn and a confidence to express ideas on paper and verbally are the most important attributes students should possess. GCSE passes in linked subjects like English Literature, History, Geography and other humanities/social sciences may help prepare students for the essay writing and the research elements but there are very few stipulations and most students with a positive work ethic and an open minded approach thrive on the courses offered.

Where can it lead?

University English Language and Linguistics departments are vibrant and forward-thinking places and a degree course in English Language, with or without an associated discipline, is to be recommended. For most degree courses, universities welcome the study skills that English Language A Level promotes, such as independent research, data manipulation, evaluative writing and accurate, fluent prose. That English Language is a multidisciplinary subject is very helpful to students who wish to keep career options open at 18 and who may look for the possibility to move on to postgraduate courses in subjects as varied as Law, Modern Foreign Languages and Education. The versatility that an A Level in English Language offers students allied to the esteem in which it is held by universities and prospective employers makes the subject ideal for those embarking on most career pathways not least because organisations are keen to recruit those with very competent spoken and written communication.

The English Language course is accessible for those wishing to study it over three terms although some structured preliminary work before joining may be beneficial. Assuming guided learning hours are broadly the same as other A Level subjects receive, students should be able to cover all material and be well prepared for the examination units and for the twenty percent NEA (teacher-marked, non examined assessment), if appropriate. There is ample evidence of students completing the course in a year attaining very impressive grades but do expect to have to invest more of your own time in catching up with course content missed and consolidating essay writing through practice.

All major examination boards offer English Language A Level and most have a built in coursework (NEA) unit. CIE offers an examination-only route with the opportunity to take the AS units in November or June and to carry the result forward, completing the A2 units in subsequent exam sessions. The AQA course is one of the most popular, though it has many features in common with all other examination boards in terms of topic areas, and consists of the following:

Unit 1: Language, the individual and society

The first section of this examination paper will test candidates’ ability to manipulate methods of language analysis to explore concepts of audience, purpose, genre, mode and representation in relation to two unseen texts. There will be some subject specific terminology that students will be expected to know and to apply appropriately.

The second section offers a specific focus on Child Language Acquisition and deals with the stages of spoken language acquisition through to the age of around seven as well as the theories underpinning this development. There will also be an expectation that students will understand how reading and writing acquisition is achieved. Source material, often in the form of a transcript, will be provided to help guide the student response.

Total time available - 2 hours 30 minutes

Unit 2: Language diversity and change

The first section of this examined unit will look at how language use varies across gender, social class and ethnicity, as well as how the English language has developed and changed over time. Students will be expected to have studied texts during the course across a range of social and historical contexts and will be asked to write an extended essay using their knowledge and understanding.

The second section focuses more specifically on the idea of discourse - that language conveys attitudes and forms of representation that are being projected by the producer and are directed at influencing the listener/reader. There will be two unseen texts that will guide students’ response but wider knowledge must be incorporated.

Unit 3: Language in Action

This is the independent investigation and is marked by teacher assessment. It is not examined and covers 20% of the award.

The aim of this area of study is to allow students to explore and analyse language data independently and develop and reflect upon their own writing expertise. It requires students to carry out two different kinds of individual research:

• a language investigation (2,000 words excluding data)
• a piece of original writing and commentary (750 words each).

Students can choose to pursue a study of spoken, written or multimodal data, or a mixture of text types, demonstrating knowledge in areas of individual interest. In preparation for this, students need to study how to:

• identify an appropriate investigation topic and research questions
• select and apply a methodology for data collection and analysis
• work in greater depth and with greater range
• transcribe spoken data where appropriate
• use language concepts and ideas

English Language at A Level is both an engaging and a rewarding one for students who possess intellectual curiosity and a general interest in communication.

This article was written by Bob Simpson, Head of English, Rochester Independent College .

The data entered on this form will be used only for the purpose of responding to your enquiry. It will not be used for sales/marketing, nor shared with any third party unless required to respond to your query (i.e. with one of our partner colleges).

• A level Art
• A level Biology
• A level Business
• A level Chemistry
• A level Classical Civilisation
• A level Computer science
• A level Drama and Theatre
• A level Economics
• A level English Language
• A level English Language and Literature
• A level English Literature
• A level Film Studies
• A level Geography
• A level History
• A level History of Art
• A level Law
• A level Maths/Further Maths
• A level Media Studies
• A level Modern Languages
• A level Music
• A level Philosophy
• A level Physics
• A level Politics
• A level Psychology
• A level Religious Studies
• A level Sociology

Return to the list of A level subjects

Interested in studying A level English Language?

cife independent sixth form colleges offer:

• Traditional A level English Language two year A level courses combining independent schools' small class sizes and emphasis on exam success with the student-centred outlook of the best state state sixth-form colleges
• Intensive, focussed and effective A level English Language one year A level courses
• Help starting your revision with English Language A level Easter revision courses
• All the benefits of small-group teaching, focus on the individual and a more adult environment to help you achieve better results from English Language A level resit courses

Further advice articles

• FAQs about A-level retakes and options for resitting
• Exam remarks - what to do, and when - updated for 2023
• Appealing against your A-level or GCSE results in 2023
• One year A-levels courses at CIFE colleges
• Sixth-form advice articles about university entrance...
• Sixth-form advice articles about study skills...
• Advice articles about sixth-form choices...

Need any help?

Name (required): Please leave this field empty. Email (required): Phone number: Tell us how we can help: Confirm acceptance of Privacy Policy

Courses at cife colleges

GCSE courses Two-year A level courses Final-year A level courses One-year A level courses A level retake courses University Foundation courses Easter A level & GCSE revision courses

Advice articles

FAQs about retakes Revision UCAS personal statement Tips for a top UCAS application For international students Choosing the right A levels Oxbridge and medicine interviews All advice articles

More about cife FAQ about colleges News Why colleges join cife Useful links Fees at cife colleges Contact us

Search Courses & Information

Study a level english from home.

Study your English A Level online and from home at your own pace. Our A Level English Language & Literature Courses are the official A Levels from Edexcel with the most up-to-date official course materials. See below for more details.

Study A Level English online with us

Did you know that University graduates earn on average £12000 a year more than non-graduates?

That’s because employers value trusted qualifications- and A levels are known as ‘the gold standard of the British education system’.

A levels offer UCAS points, which improve your chances of getting into University.

But although they are traditional qualifications, you don’t have to study in the traditional way. You don’t have to go to college every day.

Now you can study an A level course from home with Open Study College.

Download a prospectus

Your prospectus will be emailed to you shortly. You will also receive a call from one of our friendly student advisers to see how we can help you achieve your goals.

By completing this form you are expressing interest in Open Study College. We will send you information about our courses and any special offers we think will be useful to you. You will be able to unsubscribe at anytime. See our Privacy Policy .

How it works

You can study our A Level English courses with full support from a qualified tutor.

We have English Language and English Literature A Levels

Enrol online and we’ll send you a course pack containing a study guide, comprehensive study notes, bag and pen.

Your personal tutor will help you every step of the way. You can send your assignments by post or email. They will provide you with assignment marking and feedback to help you improve. And our expert will rewrite your CV to improve your job prospects.

We have 2 option types for A Level English:

• A Level English Coursework and Tutor support only. You will be responsible for booking exams.
• A level English inc Exams All Coursework and Exams fees! We’ll book your exams for you whenever you’re ready. Stress and hassle free!

Following the syllabus of the largest A Level awarding bodies - AQA and Edexcel

We follow the syllabuses from the two largest A Level awarding bodies – Edexcel and AQA.

Edexcel are the largest awarding body in the UK.

AQA are an independent charity which awards 44% of all A Levels studied each year. That’s around 1.5 million students this summer.

Study from home, at your own pace

If you struggle to find time to study every day at a traditional college, a home learning course is an ideal solution.

Over 120,000 people have studied with us from home and enjoyed full support from a tutor.

You’ll study whenever you want, at your own pace. There are no strict deadlines (you’ll have up to 18 months of tutor support).

Award-winning tutor support

Our courses are studied entirely from home- but you still benefit from help every step of the way from our dedicated expert tutors who can be contacted via our award-winning e-learning site.

Complete A Level education from home - study in your spare time

The same A levels that are studied at colleges around the UK. The same syllabus, the same coursework, the same exams and full tutor support. The only difference is that you can study wherever you want, when you want.

See what previous student, Kelly, thinks of Open Study College

Paving your way to (better) employment

Whether you’re setting out on a brand new career path, aiming higher in your job or just getting started in employment, Open Study College are here to improve your career prospects.

When you enrol, get in touch with our learner services and request your free Employability Guide. Our expert guide will help you understand the qualities and skills employers are looking for. It will also enable you to demonstrate your skills, so you stand out from other candidates.

Once you have passed your course, you can take advantage of our free CV rewriting service. We will use our expertise to improve your chances of finding a job with a noticeable CV!

At Open Study College, we help shape your future.

To request your free copy of our Employability Guide and CV writing service email [email protected] or call 03300 563100 and our friendly team will send you a link to access the guide.

A Level Chemistry

A Level English Language and Literature

A level english literature, sign up to receive discounts, advice and latest news via email..

Our Student Advisers are eager to help - call us now on 03300 563100 . Alternatively, fill out the form below and we'll get back to you.

Programmes & Qualifications

Cambridge international as & a level english - literature (9695).

• Syllabus overview

Learners following the Cambridge International AS and A Level English syllabus will study a range of texts in the three main forms: prose, poetry and drama. Set texts are offered from a wide range of different periods and cultures.

Learners will develop skills of reading and analysis of texts, and are encouraged to undertake wider reading to aid understanding of the texts studied. They will learn skills of effective and appropriate communication including the ability to discuss the critical context of texts.

Changes have been made to this syllabus for examination from 2021 onwards. Please see the 2021-2023 syllabus for detailed information.

The syllabus year refers to the year in which the examination will be taken.

• -->2021 - 2023 Syllabus update (PDF, 179KB)
• -->2024 - 2026 Syllabus (PDF, 523KB)

Syllabus support

• -->2023 - 2026 Grade Description A Level (PDF, 156KB)
• -->2023 - 2026 Grade Description AS Level (PDF, 149KB)
• -->Support for Literature in English (PDF, 3MB)

Syllabus updates

We worked with teachers, subject expert panels and universities around the world to update our Cambridge International AS & A Level English subject group as part of our on-going review process. Following the review, we have made some changes to Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English for examination in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Many teachers told us that they offer more than one English subject from this group, so we have made some changes so that the syllabuses work together regardless of whether a student is studying one or more subject from this group. To make it clearer for teachers, we have separated this syllabus (Cambridge International AS and A Level English – Literature 9695) from our other Cambridge International AS & A Level English syllabuses.

How has the syllabus changed?

Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English is available for examination in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

• We have updated the aims in the syllabus, but the emphasis remains the same - to encourage learners to enjoy reading a wide range of international texts and to develop their skills in Literature.
• Interpretation.
• We have updated the list of set texts in the 'Subject content' section of the syllabus.
• A list of command words has been added to the syllabus to help teaching and learning and exam preparation.

How has the assessment changed?

• We have removed optional routes through the syllabus. There are now compulsory examination components: Paper 1 and Paper 2 at AS Level, with the addition of Paper 3 and Paper 4 at A Level.
• Paper 2: The assessment of an Unseen text has been introduced to the AS level and this provides good progression from Cambridge IGCSE.
• Coursework has been removed from the syllabus. All components are now externally assessed.
• All learners will study all three forms: poetry, prose and drama at both AS and A Level. This allows students to gain a good knowledge and understanding of Literature in all forms.
• The question paper structure has changed, as have the paper titles due to the changes made to the assessment model. However, the style of questions and presentation of the questions remains consistent with the current syllabus.
• The rubrics in all of the question papers have changed. Please see the specimen papers for further information.
• The levels-based marking criteria have been updated to maintain validity and reliability of assessment.

When do these changes take place?

The updated syllabus is for examination in June and November 2021, 2022 and 2023. It is also available in March 2021, 2022 and 2023 (India only). Please see the 2021-2023 syllabus above for full details.

Coming soon

We are developing a wide range of support to help you plan and teach the 2021-2023 syllabus.

Look out for a comprehensive range of materials to help you teach the updated syllabus including a scheme of work, Example candidate responses, Learner and Teacher Guides as well as specimen paper answers. These resources will be available from April 2019 onwards (before first teaching) through our School Support Hub .

Endorsed resources

Introduce key concepts and skills for advanced level literary study and focus on developing effective writing from the start. Give students a toolkit for responding to unseen texts and exploring the set texts in depth.

Read more on the Collins website

Through exploring wide ranging texts, students will find they are building essential skills – such as the ability to write clearly and effectively, construct an argument, manage information and analyse complex pieces.

Read more on the Cambridge University Press website

Important notices

We are withdrawing Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English (9695) from the March exam series. The last March series for this syllabus will be March 2026. 

From 2027, we will only offer this syllabus in the June and November exam series.

We communicated this change to schools in September 2022.

Find out more about our range of English syllabuses to suit every level and ambition.

For some subjects, we publish grade descriptions to help understand the level of performance candidates’ grades represent.

We paused the publication of grade descriptions in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the temporary changes to the awarding standard in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

As the awarding standard has now returned to the pre-pandemic standard, we are working to produce up-to-date grade descriptions for most of our general qualifications. These will be based on the awarding standards in place from June 2023 onwards.

School Support Hub

Teachers at registered Cambridge schools can unlock over 30 000 teaching and learning resources to help plan and deliver Cambridge programmes and qualifications, including Schemes of work, Example candidate responses, Past papers, Specimen paper answers, as well as digital and multimedia resources.

Schemes of work

Example responses, past papers, specimen paper answers.

Register your interest in becoming a Cambridge School

Stay up to date

Sign up for updates about changes to the syllabuses you teach

• Past papers, examiner reports and specimen papers
• Published resources

This website works best with JavaScript switched on. Please enable JavaScript

• Centre Services
• Associate Extranet
• All About Maths

AS and A-level English Language

• Specification
• Planning resources
• Teaching resources
• Assessment resources

Introduction

• Specification at a glance
• 3.1 Language and the individual
• 3.2 Language varieties
• 4.1 Language, the individual and society
• 4.2 Language diversity and change

4.3 Language in action

• Scheme of assessment
• Non-exam assessment administration (A-level only)
• General administration

The aim of this area of study is to allow students to explore and analyse language data independently and develop and reflect upon their own writing expertise.

It requires students to carry out two different kinds of individual research:

• a language investigation (2,000 words excluding data)
• a piece of original writing and commentary (750 words each).

Students can choose to pursue a study of spoken, written or multimodal data, or a mixture of text types, demonstrating knowledge in areas of individual interest.

In preparation for this, students need to study how to:

• identify an appropriate investigation topic and research questions
• select and apply a methodology for data collection and analysis
• work in greater depth and with greater range
• transcribe spoken data where appropriate
• use language concepts and ideas
• evaluate and draw conclusions on the findings of the investigation
• present findings in an appropriate and accessible way
• reference reading materials correctly
• evaluate the structures and conventions of a variety of genres
• plan, draft and redraft as part of the writing process
• reflect on the writing process using methods of language analysis.

Language Investigation

Students may choose to pursue an area of individual interest. For example, this might include studies of:

• representations of different individuals, social groups or nationalities
• regional dialect
• gendered talk
• the language of new communication technologies
• children’s language use
• norms and variations in usages of different kinds
• the language of the media
• code switching and mixing between English and other languages
• the language of different occupations or pastimes
• historical changes in English over time.

Students are not obliged to restrict themselves to those areas that are formally taught, as the basis of the investigation is the value of student-led enquiry supported by open learning. Therefore, any area seen by supervising teachers as yielding interesting questions about language in use may be chosen. Students can ask a number of fruitful questions, which can be generated by questions such as the following:

• A genre-based investigation: what are the distinctive features of this type of language use?
• A function/use-based investigation: what is the language used to do?
• An attitudes-based investigation: how do people feel about this language?
• A user-based investigation: who uses this type of language?

Students will need to decide what kind of data they collect:

• spoken language
• written language
• multimodal language
• word lists (ie lists of new words etc)
• attitudes to language
• uses of language
• views about language.

Underpinning this piece of research is the challenge that, in consultation with their supervising teacher, students should collect their own data as the basis of their study, as well as select their own approach for analysis.

Investigations need a specific focus, for example:

• the writing of two children aged 8
• features of the Devon dialect, based on a survey
• the language of wedding ceremonies from two different cultures
• the language of teachers’ reports
• the language used in three different advertisements for a particular product
• how stories are told in a particular comic
• how travel guides represent a particular community
• the language of sports commentary
• how turntaking works in real-time writing online
• language patterns in the names of shops.

The list above is neither definitive nor prescriptive.

The investigation should contain the following sections:

• brief discussion of the reasons for choosing the investigation focus
• what the investigation is trying to find out (aims).

Methodology

• an evaluative account of how the data was collected and organised for analysis
• approaches to analysis.
• analysis and interpretation of the findings, responding to the aim of the investigation
• critical consideration of relevant concepts and issues surrounding the topic area
• analysis of the contextual influences upon the data collected.
• interpretation of the findings of the investigation linked to the aim/focus of the investigation.
• a list of all sources used (paper and web-based).
• clean copies of the collected data
• evidence to support quantitative approaches.

Original writing

Students will produce one piece of original writing based on one of the following three areas:

• The Power of Persuasion
• The Power of Storytelling
• The Power of Information

and one accompanying commentary.

In preparation for the writing, students will study a range of style models before selecting and analysing one style model in detail. Students will select their own style model in consultation with their supervising teacher. Students will then use this research to inform their own piece of original writing.

The commentary will allow the student to consider and evaluate the style model, the writing process and the effectiveness of the final piece of writing.

The folder submitted should contain:

• a piece of original writing
• an annotated style model
• a reflective commentary
• references (paper and web-based).

Examples of pieces of writing students could consider:

The power of persuasion

• a piece of investigative journalism
• a speech delivered on a controversial topic
• a letter to an MP.

The power of storytelling

• a short story
• an extract from a biography
• a dramatic monologue.

The power of information

• a piece of travel journalism
• a blog focusing on social issues
• a piece of local history.

Methods of language analysis

Both the investigation and original writing will have a distinctive approach to analysis that is shaped by the particular needs of the research pathway or theme chosen. However, underlying any analysis will be coverage of some relevant aspects of the language levels, as follows:

• phonetics, phonology and prosodics: how speech sounds and effects are articulated and analysed
• graphology: the visual aspects of textual design and appearance
• lexis and semantics: the vocabulary of English, including social and historical variation
• grammar, including morphology: the structural patterns and shapes of English at sentence, clause, phrase and word level
• pragmatics: the contextual aspects of language use
• discourse: extended stretches of communication occurring in different genres, modes and contexts.

English A level Distance Learning

• A level Courses
• Biology A level
• Business A level
• Economics A level
• English Language A level
• English Literature A level
• French A level
• History A level
• Law A level
• Mathematics A level
• Psychology A level
• Sociology A level
• Spanish A level
• Our Money Back Guarantee

A level English Key Facts

English A level

This English Language A level course matches the AQA specification for examination in June 2022 and later years.

This course has been designed to match the new AQA English Language Specification 7701/7702.  This brand new specification has been designed to allow students to develop a wide range of skills.  These include

• critical reading
• data analysis
• the ability to develop and sustain arguments
• writing skills

The skills developed are invaluable in the work place and will greatly aid students progress to any form of future study.

• SPECIFICATION
• Prerequisites

Module One- Introduction to Language Analysis: Language Frameworks

Module one of the course introduces you to the analytical frameworks used in linguistic study; lexis, semantics, grammar, phonology and discourse. This approach is sometimes referred to as ‘language as system’.

Module Two: Textual Variations and Representations

Building on language frameworks from Module One: Modes of Address. These are ways into individual texts to help you develop a firm understanding of how language is used in a  particular context.

Module Three: Language Diversity

Module Three of the course introduces you to the sociolinguistic frameworks used in linguistic study

Module Four: Language Discourses

Students will study a range of texts that convey attitudes to language diversity and change. The texts will include those written for non-specialist audiences. Students will explore how texts are produced to convey views and opinions about language issues. They will evaluate how texts represent language, constructing an identity for the producer. The connections to wider language discourses will be examined.

Module Five: Language in Action: Investigating Language

The lessons in this module are designed to support you in your preparation for the first element of the ‘Language in Action’ coursework unit, the Language Investigation. This forms an integral part of the A-level assessment.

Module Six: Understanding Children’s Language Development

This module is concerned with how children acquire language

Module Seven: Applying Theories of Language Development to Analysis of Speech and Writing

This module is concerned with the development of children’s literacy. The lesson begins by considering the relationship between literacy and the development of spoken language. Models of early and emergent literacy from the field of cognitive development are explored. some of the main aspects of early literacy development are identified. There are opportunities to examine examples of emergent writing from domestic and formal settings.

Module Eight: Language in Action – Original Writing

The original writing element of your coursework folder will allow you to demonstrate your practical and creative language skills. You may produce a piece of work which is either fiction or non-fiction. Work may include articles and texts designed to be spoken.

Module Nine: Introduction to Language Change

Change is taken to refer to the ways in which language develops over time diachronic change, while diversity is used to refer to varied uses of English at any given time also known as synchronic change.

Module Ten: Evaluating Language Change

Module ten builds on the knowledge and skills developed in Module Three (Sociolinguistics). Sociolinguistics is the study of language and society. In this module, you examine the rich variety of English in use today.

The course prepares students for the AQA English Language AS and A level specification. 7701/7702.

The Full A level is examined by two written examinations of 2 hours and 30 minutes and two pieces of coursework.

Paper 1: Language, the individual and society – 100 Marks 40% of the A level

What’s assessed.

• Textual variations and representations • Children’s language development (0 – 11 years) • Methods of language analysis are integrated into the activities

Paper 2: Language diversity and change – 100 Marks 40% of the A level

• Language diversity and change • Language discourses • Writing skills • Methods of language analysis are integrated into the activities

Non-exam assessment: Language in action – 3500 words, 100 marks 20% of the A level

• Language investigation • Original writing • Methods of language analysis are integrated into the activities

Students produce: • a language investigation (2,000 words excluding data) • a piece of original writing and commentary  (1,500 words total)

Please note that the marking and moderation of NEA (coursework) by OOL tutors is included in the course fees – this is not true of other providers.

Students would normally be expected to have a minimum of 4 GCSE passes at grade C/4 and above. This course is very technical and students should have a grade B/6 or above in GCSE English Language.

Hi! We are currently open and an experienced Student Adviser is available to answer any questions you may have. Our number is 0800 9 757575

Signing up for this course allows you to apply for an NUS extra discount card

Supporting resources.

• Sample Lessons

Share this page

Stay connected.

A-Level English Literature Guide

In A-Level by Think Student Editor October 21, 2022 Leave a Comment

A-Level English Literature can be a niche or popular subject – sometimes classes have less than 10 people, sometimes classes are full. Whether you’ve picked it for A-Level or are sitting on the fence, it can be one of the hardest subjects to get right. Think you need some help? This guide is here to help answer all your questions.

In this guide I’ll be discussing whether you should take A-Level English Literature, what the course involves and what the benefits are to taking it. Keep reading to find out more!

Table of Contents

Should you take A-Level English Literature?

Personally, I feel that A-Level English Literature is one of the most creative A-Level subjects. If you enjoyed English Literature GCSE, the chances are you’ll also enjoy English Literature A-Level.

I’d only recommended taking English Literature A-Level if you are strongly passionate about it. The workload can be intense, so if you don’t enjoy the subject, you probably won’t enjoy the A-Level course.

Most schools will hold events for future sixth form students to learn more about each subject. From these you find out more about the course the school offers, or you can ask your teachers.

Alternatively, exam board websites usually post their specifications. For example, you can find the OCR specification here .

If you know what you want to pursue beyond A-Levels, you should also consider whether English Literature A-Level is necessary for future careers. This Think Student article has information on the most respected A-Level subjects.

Alternatively, read this Think Student article if you want to read more about A-Level combinations favoured by universities.

However, if you really want to take English Literature, you should choose what you’re interested in — it will make A-Levels in general more enjoyable.

Ultimately, whether you take English Literature A-Level or not is up to you. If you have a passion for the subject or think it could help you in the future, you should definitely consider choosing it.

How hard is A-Level English Literature?

Any A-Level English Literature student will tell you that it’s not an easy A-Level . In fact, this Think Student article has a list of the top 10 hardest A-Levels to take.

However, you shouldn’t let difficulty put you off. If you achieved the GCSE grades required to take the A-Level, you’re good enough to take the subject.

I would say that A-Level English Literature is moderately difficult. What many students, including myself, like about English is that there is technically no “wrong” answer. However, this also means your knowledge has to be on-point .

Still, don’t let difficulty get you down. Your school wouldn’t let you take A-Level English Literature if they thought you couldn’t handle it. Difficulty is also subjective; what other students find hard, you may find easy.

However , if you are a few weeks into the course and you decide it isn’t for you, there will still be time to switch subjects . If you have any concerns, this Think Student article offers advice on how to know if a course is right for you.

Now that we’ve established whether A-Level English Literature is right for you, let’s look at what the A-Level actually involves.

What do you do in A-Level English Literature?

The A-Level English Literature course is different depending on which exam board your sixth form uses. Even so, most of the courses have similar structures or modules.

As I mentioned earlier, if you enjoyed your GCSE English course, you’ll probably like the A-Level course too. Keep reading to find out more about the general structure of A-Level English Literature.

Exam boards provide a list of “set texts”. This means that your school has to choose a text to study from that specific list.

Exactly which texts are chosen is entirely up to your school. Meaning that you might study a different text to someone doing the same course.

What kind of work does A-Level English Literature involve?

The literature you study will cover poetry, prose and drama, and each exam board requires an NEA (non-exam assessment) project as part of the A-Level . Across the course, you’ll be analysing texts in response to questions on specific themes, ideas, characters or events.

The kinds of questions you get can vary . Sometimes, they’ll be a statement which you’ll be asked to agree or disagree with.

As well as this, you’ll be asked open-ended questions like discussing the presentation of a particular feature. This is one of the best things about A-Level English Literature: your opinion matters!

You’ll also have a lot of new and more complex terminology to learn, to help you analyse texts. This can definitely seem daunting when you first start. Although, if English is your favourite subject, then like me, you’ll learn to love it pretty quickly!

Does A-Level English Literature involve a lot of work?

I don’t think I need to tell you that A-Level English Literature is a very essay-based subject. However, this also means that you will have lots of writing to do and you will probably get set essays regularly . Your teachers may even set you an essay every week or two.

Due to this, for English literature, the jump from GCSE to A-Level is pretty noticeable. Especially as you will generally have quite a lot of work to do. If you’re worried that you aren’t prepared enough for it, this Think Student article has tips you’ll find useful.

Like I said earlier, exactly what you do, including how much work, depends on which exam board your school has chosen. Read further to find out more about the different exam boards, and what they offer as part of A-Level English Literature.

What are the exam boards for A-Level English Literature?

All 4 English exam boards – AQA, OCR, Edexcel and Eduqas – offer A-Level English Literature as a subject. Earlier in the guide , I mentioned that each exam board offers different texts and modules.

While your specific texts will depend on your sixth form, the modules are the same for everyone under the exam board. Continue reading for more information.

What is AQA A-Level English Literature like?

AQA, unlike the other exam boards, actually offers 2 different specifications: A and B .

In specification A, there are 3 compulsory modules. These are “Love through the ages”, “Texts in shared contexts”, and “Independent critical study: Texts across time”.

In specification B, there are also 3 compulsory modules. These are “Literary genres”, “Texts and genres”, and “Theory and independence”.

The texts that are part of specification A include one Shakespeare play, one pre-1900 poetry anthology and one pre-1900 prose text in one module. As well as 3 texts (one prose, one poetry and one drama) with at least one text written post-2000 in another module.

The texts that are part of specification B include one Shakespeare play and two pre-1900 texts in one module. As well as one post-2000 prose, one poetry, and one pre-1900 text in another module. As you can see, both specifications feature similar content but divide them differently .

However, this guide can only offer you a brief overview of the A-Level course. You can find the specifications for AQA A-Level English Literature here (specification A) and here (specification B).

What is OCR A-Level English Literature like?

The OCR A-Level English Literature specification is divided into 3 sections. These are “Drama and poetry pre-1900”, “Comparative and contextual study”, and “Literature post-1900”.

The latter section is a coursework module. Some exam boards require coursework as part of A-Level English Literature, but some don’t.

In the first section, you’ll study one Shakespeare play, one pre-1900 drama and one pre-1900 poetry text. In the second section, you’ll choose one theme (from a list provided by the exam board) and two texts, with at least one text from the list provided by OCR.

The third section is a coursework module, which means you don’t sit an exam for it. Instead , you produce an essay over the course which determines a percentage of your final grade . You can find the full OCR A-Level English Literature specification here .

What is Edexcel A-Level English Literature like?

Pearson Edexcel offers 4 components as part of A-Level English Literature. These are “Drama”, “Prose”, “Poetry”, and a coursework module.

As with the components and modules of other exam boards, each module has its own exam (except for coursework). For Edexcel, the “Drama” and “Poetry” exams are 2 hours 15 minutes, and the “Prose” exam is 1 hour 15 minutes .

In “Drama”, students study one Shakespeare play and critical essays related to the play, and one other drama. In “Prose”, students study two prose texts with one text written pre-1900.

In “Poetry”, students study an anthology and a range of poetry from either a specific poet or specific period. The Pearson Edexcel specification is linked here .

What is Eduqas A-Level English Literature like?

The Eduqas English Literature A-Level specification also has 4 components. These are “Poetry”, “Drama”, “Unseen Texts”, and “Prose Study”.

The “Prose Study” component is a coursework module. All 3 Eduqas A-Level English Literature exams are 2 hours long.

In total, you’ll study two selections of poetry (pre-1900 and post-1900), a Shakespeare play, two non-Shakespeare plays (pre-1900 and post-1900), and two prose texts.

Unlike the other exam boards, Eduqas dedicates a whole module to unseen texts , so you can’t directly revise for that. If you want to read the complete specification, you can do so here .

How to do well in A-Level English Literature

Every student knows there’s no set way to do well. There are way too many changing factors to offer you a fool-proof guide to success!

However , there are definitely techniques and processes to help you secure those top grades . Continue reading for my personal advice on how to succeed in A-Level English Literature.

The best advice I received while studying A-Level English Literature is to include your work in your everyday life. This could be as simple as telling your friend about a character you liked. Alternatively, you could use a key quote in a conversation.

These things both count as revision, because it helps you remember important information. For more revision techniques, see this Think Student article.

in A-Level English Literature is to take advantage of peer review . You’ll definitely make mistakes in your work, no one is perfect!

Asking a partner, friend, or family member to read your essay is a great way to pick up on things you miss. This Think Student article has some useful advice for English literature essay writing!

How to write an English literature essay for A-Level?

Sometimes, the exam system can make it feel like you don’t have much self-expression. I know I’ve certainly felt that way.

One of the great things about essays, and English literature, is that you get to voice your own opinion in your own way . I’ll take you through some general tips on what makes a good essay.

The most important thing is to perfect your spelling and grammar as much as possible. One thing I was always told in school was that if your essay is coherent, you’re halfway to a good essay. Obviously, this is harder if English isn’t your first language, but practice makes perfect!

On top of spelling and grammar, you should make your argument as clear as possible. Teachers will often refer to this as “signposting”.

It lets examiners know exactly what you’re going to talk about. It’s also useful if you run out of time, as examiners can see what you were planning to talk about; it shows you had good ideas, you were just limited by time. For tips on how to structure an English essay, check out this Think Student article.

A third, more obvious tip is to keep your assessment objects in mind as much as possible . In your essays, it’s good to mentally check off what criteria you’ve followed. This way you can keep track of the marks you’ve achieved, and the ones you still need.

What can you do with an English literature A-Level?

Being a student who took A-Level English Literature myself, one of my biggest concerns was the pathways available to me afterwards .

English is often talked about as a subject with limited options – but don’t worry! A-Level English Literature is useful for degrees in fields like English, History, Law, Politics, Philosophy and more.

It might surprise you, but English is a subject that a lot of universities and employers like . You don’t have to want to be a writer to find English A-Level useful.

The writing skills you gain are desirable to universities and employers in a range of fields . However, if you’re still uncertain, I’d recommend researching what A-Levels you need to pursue your future degree/job.

For example, if you want to be a vet , midwife , counsellor , nurse , social worker , police officer , pilot or account , you can click on their respective links to see what A-Levels you will need.

Don’t let how useful A-Level English Literature is stop you from taking it if you really want to! The most important thing about A-Levels is that you choose the subjects you like.

From personal experience, I can tell you that if you don’t care about the subject, you won’t enjoy the A-Level. If you think A-Level English Literature is right for you, choose it!