The specification takes a skills-based approach to the study of English literature that is consistent across the genres; it has been designed to inspire, challenge and motivate every student, no matter what their level of ability.
Assessment is spread over two papers, grouping similarly structured questions together, to allow students to maintain their focus. Paper 1 takes the form of a 1 hour 45 minute written exam on a Shakespeare text and a 19th-century novel (40%of the qualification). Paper 2 takes the form of a 2 hour 15 minute written exam on a modern text and a corpus of poetry
(60% of the qualification).
All students will study GCSE English Literature (alongside GCSE English Language). The exam board is AQA.
Being a literate reader widens horizons and opens up a lifetime of opportunities. Reading enables students to acquire knowledge and to build on what they already know.