GCSE English Literature

Introduction:

This course offers students the opportunity to study a range of literature texts, from a variety of historical periods and genres, which explore concepts such as the human condition and political ideologies. Studying literature allows students to develop a greater appreciation of history, culture and different perspectives on the world and become well-rounded and empathetic individuals. Through their studies, students will develop skills in critical thinking, analysis and constructing arguments, as well as improving their vocabulary and writing skills.

In Year 10 and 11, students follow a two-year linear course that is 100% exam based. Our half-termly assessments examine students on their current topic, as well as interleaving Literature topics covered in Year 10. They will sit two English Literature papers at the end of Year 11. Students follow the AQA GCSE specification.

How is the course examined?

AQA English Literature Paper 1: Shakespeare and 19th Century

Section A: Shakespeare - students will answer one question on ‘Macbeth’. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the play, as well as the play as a whole.

Section B: 19th Century Novel - students will answer one question on ‘A Christmas Carol’. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the novel, as well as the novel as a whole.

64 marks 40% of GCSE

AQA English Literature Paper 2: Modern Text and Poetry

Section A: Modern Texts - students will answer one essay question from a choice of two on ‘An Inspector Calls’.

Section B: Poetry - students will answer one comparative question on one named poem printed on the paper and one other poem from AQA’s ‘Power and Conflict’ anthology cluster.

Section C: Unseen Poetry - students will answer one question on one unseen poem and one question comparing this poem with a second unseen poem.

96 marks 60% of GCSE

How is the course assessed?

The course is graded with GCSE grades 1 to 9.

Equipment:

Black/ blue pen

Ruler

Highlighters

Recommended revision guides available from accounts:

CGP An Inspector Calls revision guide

CGP A Christmas Carol revision guide

CGP Macbeth revision guide

CGP Power and Conflict Anthology revision guide

CGP AQA English Language and Literature revision guide

Homework

Students should expect to receive two pieces of homework per week, one of which may be a reading or online task. All students are expected to regularly access Google Classroom, where their teacher will post notices, resources and instructions.

Learning outside of the classroom

Year 11 English Drop-Ins take place in EN6 every Thursday 2:50pm to 3:50pm. All year 11 students are welcome and encouraged to attend.