A Level English Literature

Applications Open - 1st November 2026

Applications Close - 12th February 2027

Entry Requirements - Please refer to the Sixth Form Course Directory via the website www.knoleacademy.org

Option blocks and detailed subject information can be found in our course directory on our website www.knoleacademy.org

How to Apply - Via Kent Choices https://www.kentprospectus.co.uk/login

Level 3 Courses - select a minimum of 3 courses to study

Level 2 Courses - select 1 course only as each course is studied on a full time basis.

English Literature A Level invites you to explore how writers use language, form and structure to tell stories, challenge ideas and represent different experiences. You will study plays, novels and poetry from different periods, including Shakespeare and contemporary writing. Through discussion, close reading and independent research, you will develop your own interpretations and learn to support them with evidence. The course is assessed through three written papers and an independent comparative essay.

Paper 1: Drama

You will study one Shakespeare play and one other play. You will explore dramatic methods, the contexts in which the plays were written and performed, and different critical interpretations of texts.

Paper 2: Prose

You will study two novels linked by a theme, such as the supernatural or science and society. At least one novel will be from before 1900. You will compare how the writers explore the theme.

Paper 3: Poetry

You will study a selection of poetry published after 2000 and poetry from a chosen period or named poet. You will analyse poetic techniques and practise comparing a studied poem with an unseen poem.

Students complete three externally examined papers at the end of Year 13.

You will also complete non-examination assessment (coursework): an independent essay comparing two further texts chosen with your teacher.

Paper 1 – 2 hours 15 minutes – 30% of the A Level

Paper 2 – 1 hour and 15 minutes – 20% of the A Level

Paper 3 – 2 hours and15 minutes - 30% of the A Level

Coursework, internally assessed – 20% of the A Level

Minimum of 5 9-5 grades in GCSE examinations including English and Maths. Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Literature

• Teaching

• Publishing

• Editing

• Journalism

• Law

• Communications