This exciting subject has traditionally attracted the top range of ability. However, thanks to recent syllabus changes, and a range of more contemporary novels on offer, we now attract students across the ability range; as the statistics below would suggest.

This means that the course has grown in popularity and students enjoy the relaxed, yet studious, atmosphere within curriculum time.

What is particularly unique about this course are the opportunities available to each individual in the terms of tailoring their learning to suit their ability.

The course offers students the opportunity to select novels of their own choice, if they so wish. Equally so, students may follow the suggested range of texts available if they feel more comfortable in doing so; it really is a course tailored to suit ALL students!

We firmly believe that enjoyment of the subject is the key to successful learning. Therefore, we endeavour to engender a stimulating environment of learning.  We also encourage active debate and independent study, along with clear assessment opportunities to maximise potential.

Why study English Literature at St. Mary's?

• The teaching encompasses a variety of styles. The teachers combine their enthusiasm with their experience to tease the best results out of the students.
• English Literature continues to be regarded as a popular Degree course, with fierce competition for places at many "top" Universities.
• Text choices range from exciting examples from the Literary Canon, to contemporary texts that many students find extremely accessible and engaging.
• There is scope for students to select their OWN preferred texts or even negotiate their OWN essay titles if they wish to challenge themselves further!
• The course structure is flexible to suit all students' ability levels.
• There are opportunities for external visits to places of Literary interest such as Hawarth, home of the Brontes, as well as seminar and lecture facilities to broaden knowledge.

The A-Level Specification AQA Specification B

AS course

Students are required to complete TWO modules.

LITB1

Aspects of Narrative

Open book examination. 2 hours. 60% of total AS mark. 30% of total A level marks.

Four texts are studied ranging from Keats and Coleridge to Khaled Hossieni and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Section A: will involve a close analysis of narrative method within ONE text.

Section B: will involve exploring an aspect of narrative within the three remaining texts.

LITB2

Dramatic Genres

Coursework. 2 pieces required. 40% of total AS marks. 20% of total A level marks.

Both pieces explore the concept of TRAGEDY within plays, drawing on Shakespeare and more contemporary dramatists such as Miller.

A2 course

Students are required to complete TWO modules.

LITB3

Texts and Genres

Closed book examination. 2 hours. 60% of total A2 marks. 30% of total A level marks.

Students are required to study a range of texts (minimum of three) that reflect representation on the GOTHIC genre.

Section A: will be a specific question on one text.

Section B: will involve an exploration of the GOTHIC across at least three texts.

LITB4

Further and Independent Reading

Coursework. 2 pieces required. 40% of total A2 marks. 30% of total A level marks.

Piece 1: a comparative study of an aspect of TWO texts.

Piece 2: an application of an aspect of pre-released critical anthology to a literary text.

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