English Literature

Course summary

English at KS5 is a subject that works well alongside a range of subjects, from History and Sociology to the Sciences; it is a subject that introduces cultural touchstones, as well as developing the student's analytical skills. English is great for developing your enjoyment and understanding of literature and language, as well as exploring history, different cultures, current affairs, philosophical issues and the world around you. The course consists of four components, studied over two years; students explore Drama, Poetry and Novels (each as a separate subject) and compliment their studies with a piece of coursework exploring two further texts of their own choosing. Current set texts are (Drama) Shakespeare's "Othello" and Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of Being Earnest"; (Poetry) the works of Christina Rosetti alongside Edexcel's "Poems of the Decade" anthology; (Novel) Mary Shelleys "Frankenstein" and Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale". From a career in Public Relations, to the management of Social Media; from Lawyer to Librarian; Journalist to English Teacher, the study of English Literature is a highly respected and soughtafter A-level. Students will have the ability to express themselves clearly and fluently both orally and in writing, suiting them for a wide range of later careers. Honed analytical minds are valued by all sectors, and English students have gone on from Whitefield to a range of respected Universities.