A Level English Literature
at Tameside College, Ashton-Under-Lyne · college
What the college says
A Level English Literature is a challenging and rewarding course for students who enjoy reading widely, thinking critically and exploring how writers use language, form and structure to shape meaning. You will study a broad range of literary texts across poetry, drama and prose, while also considering the ways texts are interpreted by different readers across time. This is a two-year A Level course, normally studied alongside two other A Levels or equivalent qualifications. The course develops your ability to analyse closely, compare texts, explore context and evaluate different critical interpretations, while also strengthening your essay writing and independent study skills. The course is made up of four components: � Component 1: Poetry � Component 2: Drama � Component 3: Unseen Texts � Component 4: Prose Study In Component 1: Poetry, you will study: � Poetry pre-1900 (open-book, clean copy) � Poetry post-1900 (open-book, clean copy) In Component 2: Drama, you will study: � Shakespeare (closed-book) � Drama through a paired study of one pre-1900 and one post-1900 play (closed-book). In Component 3: Unseen Texts, you will analyse: � Unseen prose � Unseen poetry. In Component 4: Prose Study, you will complete one 2,500-3,500 word assignment based on two prose texts by different authors, one published pre-2000 and one post-2000. This allows you to undertake an independent comparative study and make connections between texts, contexts and literary traditions. Throughout the co
What you need to get on
Entry requirements for A Level courses � Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics. � A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen. � A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment. � An interview may be required as part of the application process. Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Clarendon Sixth Form College
Camp Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6DF
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 7 September 2026 · Ashton-under-Lyne
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
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St. Helens · North West · 2 years
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