AS Level English Literature
(OCR)

Maybe you should consider English Literature...

What does the course include?
Unit 2707: Shakespeare
In this unit you will answer two questions on a Shakespeare play – usually a tragedy like 'Antony and Cleopatra'.
 

Unit 2708: Poetry and Prose
In this unit you will answer one question on poetry and one on a novel or collection of short stories. At least one of the texts you discuss must have been published before 1900. The other can be by a contemporary writer.
 

Unit 2709: Complementary Study (Coursework)

In this unit you complete a folder of coursework containing two pieces of writing on a text of your own or your school’s choice. Here you have the opportunity to focus on your own particular interests.
 

The aims of this course are to enable you to enjoy reading and discussing English Literature, and to increase your understanding of what the study of literature involves. The emphasis is on getting to know a wide range of texts in depth, by close reading; at the same time you will be encouraged to think about the contexts in which these texts were written and about the different ways in which they were read in the past and can be read now.

Entry Requirements
You should have a grade ‘C’ in GCSE English Literature and at least four other A-C GCSE grades.

English is at the centre of the Arts, and English Literature can be complemented by many other subjects. History and Modern Languages are particularly suitable partners. As an Advanced Subsidiary GCE it can also be a valuable contrast to scientific, technological and economics-based subjects, enabling you to demonstrate the breadth of your interests.

A qualification in English Literature provides a very wide range of opportunities for courses in the Arts, Humanities and Communication at degree level. As a subject which emphasises creativity, disciplined thought and communication, plus an ability to synthesise and contextualise ideas, English Literature is also welcomed as a qualification for many careers.