A-Level English Language & Literature

Upon successful completion of this A Level, you will be eligible to progress to a wide range of degree programmes at University including the BA in English Literature (Creative Writing) at University Centre Peterborough.

Example job roles:

• Publisher
• Journalist
• Teacher
• Communications Executive
• Public Relations Consultant

This course is for students who want to engage creatively with a wide range of texts and develop transferable, analytical skills as producers and interpreters of written language. This combined A Level is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of writing and linguistics through the study of an anthology, two plays and one novel. You will also undertake a wider reading programme to prepare for your coursework in the second year. Your responses to texts will cover creative writing and analytical essays.

This unique specification bridges literature and linguistics. It explores how language shapes meaning in both literary and non-literary texts, going beyond traditional approaches. Students develop expertise by analyzing diverse texts and reflecting on language use across disciplines. This fosters critical thinking and creativity in both producing and interpreting language.

For A-Level English Language and Literature, students need to study four set texts: one work of modern drama (The History Boys by Alan Bennett), one modern novel (The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald), one Shakespeare play (Othello) and an anthology of non-literary texts (including interviews, diary entries, autobiography and online texts).