English Language And Literature A Level
Subject Information
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English Language and Literature A Level
Curriculum information
Year 12 overview
Students have the option of studying English Language and Literature or English Literature.
English Literature features ground-breaking texts in a variety of literary forms from novels to poetry. The course teaches students to engage in creative literary analysis. One example is Atwood’s dystopian novel, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Its controversial and shocking portrayal of Gilead provides students with the opportunities to debate race, sexuality, patriarchy, religion and gender relations. It is a monumental book which challenges the heart of society through a bleak and blunt autobiographical stance on the fictional practices of a dictatorial regime
English language and literature does the above but also considers non fiction texts and linguistic techniques such as how to analyse phonetics, phonology and prosodics, lexis and semantics, pragmatics and other literary features.
Year 13 overview
Literature students in year 13 will be introduced to the fascinating and haunting world of Romantic poets. From studying, Shelley’s turbulent thoughts about mortality, Blake’s consideration of the relationship between good and evil to Bronte’s criticism of human nature; students will garner the opportunity to learn about this very mystical and revolutionary time where the rights of humankind were being examined.
Language and Literature students in year 13 will consider the significance of Dickens’ Great Expectations’ in relation to the literary, social, historical and cultural context: both the production and reception. Furthermore, through the study of specific extracts, students will explore and analyse the writer’s craft to develop an understanding of the characterisation, themes and motifs in greater depth.
SLE Video
Student Video
What our students say
I found English Literature/Language very interesting and enjoyable, especially in-depth discussions.
All the teachers are lovely and gave me my love of reading and writing - teaches you so much about not only English but every subject.
"Personally English Lit and Lan was the best and most memorable for me. I chose this as my first option because I always had a passion for writing and studying this at BCHS took me a step closer to my dream which I’m thankful for. During the two years, I got to know my English teachers really well and I owe it to them to say that they have not only been the best but also very supportive when it came to my flaws within the subject. Everyday I would look forward to each lesson as my teachers did their best to bring our creativity to life. I relished each practical lessons we had whilst reading our chosen books for this subject. Thank you to my two teachers. You both are amazing."
