AS/A2 LEVELS ENGLISH LITERATURE


Why study English Literature? English Literature can help us to understand and explore different aspects of human nature such as love, lust, ambition and death. It offers students, who enjoy reading, the opportunity to study and talk about a wide range of books. Through reading and writing about books you will learn a variety of important skills, one of which is how to structure and support an argument. You will also be helped to write clearly and expressively.


What do I study? You will study a wide range of literature from before Shakespeare to the present day. This includes novels, a variety of drama texts including Shakespeare, as well as a selection of poetry. An element of coursework allows students to pursue individual interests and you will be encouraged to follow your own enthusiasms.


Year 1 (AS) Unit 1: Aspects of Narrative This module is assessed via a two hour written examination. You are required to read four texts which will be chosen from a broad selection of novels and poetry. At least one will have been written before 1990. The examination will focus upon the narrative aspects of the texts.


Unit 2: Dramatic Genres This module is assessed via coursework. You are required to study two texts within the dramatic genre of Tragedy, one of which must be by Shakespeare. You are then asked to produce two pieces of writing on an aspect of this genre. One of these pieces of writing may be creative.


Year 2 (A2) Unit 3: Texts and Genres You are required to study a minimum of three texts taken from the three genres of novels, drama and poetry. One of these texts will have been written between 1300-1900. The focus will either be on Elements of the Gothic or Elements of the Pastoral. Examples of some of the authors who you may study are Angela Carter, Mary Shelley, Bram Stoker, Emily Bronte or William Blake. This module will be assessed via a two hour examination.


Unit 4: Further and Independent Reading This module is assessed via a folder containing two coursework tasks. You are required to study a minimum of three texts, one of which will be a pre-released anthology of critical writing. The first piece of coursework will be a comparative study and the second will focus upon an aspect of the critical anthology which you will apply to a literary text.


Where does English Literature take me? English Literature is a highly recognised academic subject which can be combined with Arts, Science or Mathematics for entry into Higher Education. It has particular value for careers in Law, Teaching, Civil and Social Services, Nursing, Journalism and Media, Banking, Libraries and most Management areas.


What do I need? A minimum of grade C in GCSE English Language (other qualifications may be accepted by arrangement with the Curriculum Manager). Students should also be enthusiastic readers and be prepared to contribute to discussion in order to formulate and share ideas.


FILM STUDIES


Why study Film Studies? Film Studies is designed to deepen students’ understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of film, the major art form of the twentieth century. Films have the power to shock, provoke, amuse and excite audiences. We can all enjoy films but a full appreciation can only be reached by developing skills of observation, critical analysis and personal reflection.


What do I study? Year 1 (AS) Unit 1: Exploring Film Form - Coursework


Written coursework This coursework module allows students to apply their knowledge of film language, narrative and genre in an extended essay focusing on a particular film.


Practical coursework This practical coursework module develops practical skills in storyboarding, scriptwriting,


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filming and editing. Students have the choice of creating either a short film (two minutes) or a script extract (800 words).


Unit 2: British and American Film - Examination This provides an introduction to British and American film production and an investigation into how audiences respond. This unit covers all aspects of the film industry such as production, marketing and exhibition. It investigates the impact of new technology in cinema. The British Studio Working Title is used as a case study for British cinema focusing on films such as About a Boy and Four Weddings and a Funeral. This unit predominantly focuses on modern cinema however, there is a comparative film topic question that compares old and new cinema.


Year 2 (A2) Unit 3: Film Research and Creative Projects - Coursework


Research Project This unit develops students’ research and organisation skills. Students are required to research a film topic area of their choice and present their findings.


Practical Project Directly linked with the year one project this coursework unit develops students’ practical skills. Students have the choice of creating either a short film (five minutes) or a script extract.


Unit 4: Film Experiences Issues and Debates Examination This requires an investigation into world cinema, critical analysis of a focus film and spectarship debates. This unit is designed to extend students knowledge of different cinematic forms and styles looking at a diverse range of films such as La Haine, City of God, Tsotsi and Fight Club.


Where does Film Studies take me? Film Studies is a well established advanced level course and is acceptable as an A-level for universities. If combined with practical training (especially at degree level), then there are a range of career opportunities in the film and video industries.


What do I need? Grade C or above in GCSE English Language and an interest in all aspects of cinema – not just mainstream Hollywood films.


PALMER’S COLLEGE PROSPECTUS


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