A-level English Literature

Tap into a wealth of inspiration and creativity with A-level English Literature.

trustpilot rating
Rated 4.7/5 | 1,716 reviews
Trustpilot logo
Enrol today

Curious about exams?

Learn how easy it is to take your exams with Oxbridge.

Tell me more
  • Overview
  • What you'll learn
  • Extra info
  • FAQs

Are you ready to change your world?

Due to high capacity this course is currently unavailable. Check back soon.

We sincerely apologise for this inconvenience. We’ve experienced a high level of interest this year. We hope you will consider joining us in the future!

Our learning advisers are available to answer any queries you may have:

 

 

 

 

 

Get immediate notification for next enrolment

To get on our waiting list or speak to our learning advisers about the course please get in touch with any queries you may have.

Learn from anywhere

Have complete control over the pace and style of your learning needs. Choose to study from your phone, laptop, or tablet, 24/7. Online Learning has never been so simple, or so much fun!

Join a growing community

Online but not alone. Join our growing community of Oxbridge students! Benefit from insider tips and tricks to suit your learning style whilst interacting and engaging with your fellow peers. Don’t forget to also connect with our college’s socials.

Ease yourself into sucess

Whatever your starting point, we believe in empowering our students with complete flexibility and expert guidance at their fingertips. Take learning into your own hands with courses designed around you and achieve your potential with Oxbridge.

There are many ways to pay for your course with Oxbridge:

  • Credit / Debit Card
  • PayPal
  • Pay Monthly - interest free options available*. T&Cs apply.
What\'s the difference graphic

All Oxbridge home learning courses are delivered to a high-quality standard with full access to course materials. If you prefer a printed copy of your course material, choose our print option. Note: extra charges will apply.

What you get Online Print
My oxbridge - access to online portal
Unlimited Tutor Support
Course material - online
Course material - printed copy

Overview

The study of A-level English Literature allows us to explore some of life's most complex topics: love, loss, loneliness, fear and happiness. In short, through the power of the written word, you'll take a deep dive into the strengths and frailties of human emotion.

From Shakespeare to Wyatt, to Tennessee Williams and Margaret Atwood, you'll critically examine a range of texts which sum up ‘Love Through the Ages'. You'll become confident placing poems and novels into context, identifying historicist links and comparing and contrasting characters, themes and narrative voices.

What you'll learn

Unit 1 - Love through the ages: Shakespeare's Othello

We begin with an extraordinary tragedy of love and betrayal from the Bard himself. Othello, a Moorish prince, marries his beloved Desdemona and all is well. Until – that is – Othello’s servant Iago begins to sew discord between them and Othello finds himself cruelly manipulated. Through one of Shakespeare’s finest works, you’ll begin to explore our theme, ‘Love through the Ages’.

Unit 2 - Love through the ages: Poetry - Anthology (Pre 1900)

Is there a more timeless expression of love than the poem? You’ll dive right in with your critical analysis of this unique art form by studying Renaissance poetry from Wyatt and Donne before moving on to the Cavalier poets Lovelace and Wilmot. Next, you’ll critically analyse Romantic poems such as ‘The Garden of Love’ by William Blake and ‘She Walks in Beauty’ by Lord Byron and Victorian poems such as ‘Remember’ by Christina Rosetti and ‘At an Inn’ by Thomas Hardy.

Unit 3 - Love through the Ages: Prose - The Great Gatsby

Set in the whirl of post-consumerism in 1920s New York, Scott Fitzgerald explores the nature of love in relation to extreme wealth and power. In the exam, you’ll be comparing the text to the pre-1900 poems in the exam, so you’ll be looking for links and points of comparison throughout this unit. You’ll cover themes like ‘dreams and status’, ‘loyalty vs sex’ and ‘self-destruction’.

Unit 4 - Love through the ages: Unseen poems

The course now shifts into a new theme: modern times. All the texts in paper two will be from the 20th and 21st centuries, so it is important to consider what issues may have influenced writers in recent years.

Unit 5 - Texts in shared contexts: Drama - A Streetcar Named Desire

This English literature course now shifts into a new theme: modern times. All the texts in paper two will be from the 20th and 21st centuries, so it is important to consider what issues may have influenced writers in recent years. Tennessee Williams’s play ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ explores the struggle for identity in post-war America as cultures and personalities clash.

Unit 6 - Texts in shared contexts: Prose - The Handmaid's Tale

Margaret Atwood wrote this novel in response to shifting gender roles in the 1980s but it’s still remarkably relevant today. The story is set in a disturbing dystopia and the stifling writing style places the reader at the heart of a brutal regime. You’ll compare this novel with ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’, examining the characters, themes and voices in the two texts.

Unit 7 - Texts in shared contexts: Poem - Skirrid Hill (Post-2000)

In this section of the English Literature A-level course, you’ll have a chance to practise analysing a range of 20th and 21st-century prose. In the exam, you’ll answer a question about an unseen prose extract; you will read closely, form opinions and interpret a short section from a modern novel.

Unit 8 - Texts in shared contexts: Unseen prose extract

In this section, you’ll have a chance to practise analysing a range of 20th and 21st-century prose. In the exam, you’ll answer a question about an unseen prose extract; you will read closely, form opinions and interpret a short section from a modern novel.

Unit 9 - Independent critical study

This unit of A-level English Lit will be completed alongside the rest of the course. You’ll read two complete texts (including at least one from before 1900) and work independently to explore the links and connections between them. With your tutor, you will decide on an area of study and a title for your essay. Your final essay will be 2500 words and will include a detailed bibliography showing the research you have completed.

Extra info

Calendar
Fast Track - In a rush? You'll have the option to complete this course within a year.
Map location
Guaranteed Exam Venue - Finding exam spaces can be tough, so with Oxbridge, you'll get guaranteed access to our network of exam centres around the UK
Circle check
Exam Pass Guarantee - We're so confident, that if you don't pass the first time, we'll support you to the next exam for free

Awarding Body

aqa@8x

AQA qualifications are internationally recognised and taught in 30 countries around the world, highly valued by employers and universities and enable young people to progress to the next stage of their lives. AQA qualifications suit a range of abilities and include GCSE courses, IGCSE courses and A-level courses.

Course Outcome

Upon successful completion of this home learning A-level English Literature course, you will receive an A-level in English Literature, issued by AQA. This syllabus (7712A) has been chosen specifically because it is best suited to distance learning. Your certificate is identical to that issued to students at any other school, college or university.

How is this course assessed or examined?

You can enrol now for A-level English Literature AQA examinations for Summer 2024.

You will be required to complete the three assessments for A-level English Literature:

Written Exams:

  • Paper 1: 3 hours, 40% of A-level, 75 marks
  • Paper 2: 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A-level, 75 marks

Non-Exam Assessment (NEA):

  • Coursework Task 1: 2,500 words, 20% of A-level, 50 marks 

Entry requirements

It is strongly recommended that you have studied English Literature to GCSE or equivalent level before starting this course. This A-level English Literature syllabus is a difficulty level three: the equivalent difficulty of an A-level or BTEC, usually suitable for most learners of all ages.

FAQs

Searching now...

No answers found, but we might still be able to help

How much do exams cost?

Many of our courses do not require exams however, A-levels, GCSEs and some other courses do require exams to complete the qualification. Exam fees are additional to the cost of the course and prices vary depending on the course and where you sit them – find out more.

Planning on studying A-levels or GCSEs with us? We can add your exams during enrolment and blend them into your monthly payment plan if you wish. If you’re not ready to book your exam(s) yet, you can book them at a later date – all of the information is available on MyOxbridge under NEAS and Exams.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Can I sign up for a Student Beans account and get Student Discounts?

Yes! One of the many benefits of being an Oxbridge student is that you get access to great discounts with a Student Beans account! Eligibility criteria apply and acceptance is made at the discretion of Student Beans. Find out how to sign up.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Can you provide a reference for my UCAS application?

Oxbridge is able to provide an academic reference for you however, we cannot provide a personal reference as this needs to be someone who knows you personally.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Can I get predicted grades for my UCAS application?

Absolutely! We can process a predicted grade for you once you have completed a total of four assignments – this can be sent over to you via email or letter which can then be passed on to UCAS for your application.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Exam Results: I need to resit my exams, can I enrol with Oxbridge?

At Oxbridge, we take enrolments all year round. Once you’re enrolled, you’ll be able to get started right away. Studying online means your work and revision fit around you and your lifestyle. For example, if you have a part-time job or need to study alongside other subjects, you’ll be able to find time to fit our online courses into your schedule.

Enjoy flexible, convenient, affordable learning, fully supported by expert tutors who are passionate about their subjects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our course tutors and know that they hold the key to success. Whatever your goals, dreams or aspirations, Oxbridge is here to help you facilitate them.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Exam Results: I didn't pass English or Maths, what do I do next?

First of all, don’t worry – everything will be okay. Unfortunately, if you didn’t get a grade 4 or higher (equivalent to a C or above) in your English and Maths, you will have to re-take it in order to pass. Oxbridge is ready and available to support you with this. Get in touch via live chat, phone or email.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Exam Results: When will I receive my certificate?

Oxbridge students who sat their exams through our partnership exam centres will usually receive their certificates in November. Certificates will be sent out by recorded delivery.

Wondering what to do next? There are so many options available, it’s important to get the right advice. Whether your choice is to continue onto further education, go into job training or get an apprenticeship and whether your grades are high or low – there are always options! Speak to an adviser today to see how we can support you on your next steps…

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
What can I do with my A-levels?

A-levels are a universal way to demonstrate academic competency in a multitude of disciplines. A-levels are subject-based qualifications that lead to either university, further study, training, or work. A-levels serve as a standardised way to demonstrate your academic ability and are very common entry requirements to most higher-level courses.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Exam Results: I haven't done as well as I expected in my exams. Is there anything I can do?

Yes! There are a number of post-result services available. Your entering centre will be able to provide you with further information and will process any requests for you. If you’re not sure where to turn, our friendly learning advisers are on hand and ready to help you.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Can I study this AQA A-level course if I do not live in England?

Yes! All of our learning is online, however, you will need to sit your exams in England. Find out more about exams.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Exam Results: I have individual unit marks, but no overall grade. What should I do?

Check for a cash-in code on your statement of entry. If there isn’t one, cash-in may not have been applied for. Cash-in can be applied for retrospectively from your exam centre and once entered you can expect an overall grade in one week.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Why study an online A-level course from home?

A-levels can be studied from home with Oxbridge, using our online platform. On average we find that students receive 20% higher grades and pass around 30% more quickly than in a traditional college.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
How long does it take to study an A-level?

It’s possible to study an A-level course both full-time and part-time. Normally students would study for two years, but with Oxbridge, you can also fast-track your course to complete it in one year.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
What A-Level courses should I take?

If you’re planning on going on to a degree, your chosen university will usually publish their entry requirements for each course on their website. See how these subjects feel and decide if you would enjoy them as they will form much of the base knowledge for your degree.

If you’re not entirely sure what to study, there are some standard subjects that many students choose to help them secure a place at a prestigious university, such as one of the Russell Group universities. These courses are known as the ‘facilitating courses’ and include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Literature, Geography, History, Maths, Further Maths, Modern Languages and Classical Languages.

Generally speaking, taking two facilitating subjects will allow you to keep your progression options open. For further help and guidance, we have written a detailed guide on How to Choose A-Levels.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
How many UCAS points is an A-level course?

A-levels are the most common way to access university in the UK. The system in which this is done is called UCAS. This stands for: “the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service”. See the A-level UCAS tariff points breakdown below:

  • A* – 56
  • A – 48
  • B – 40
  • C – 32
  • D – 24
  • E – 16
Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
What are A-Levels?

A-levels (also known as Advanced level qualifications) entail in-depth study of a chosen subject in order to open doors to further study including University, training, and work.

A-levels courses tend to focus on specific academic subjects such as Mathematics, English and the Sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The course material and the exams you take will be the same everywhere.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Does this A-level English Lit course have assignments?

Yes, During your A-level English Literature course, you’ll be required to complete one introductory assignment, as well as 10 other projects. These do not contribute to your final grade but provide you with an opportunity to submit work to your tutor for marking and feedback. This will help you to gauge your progress as you work through the course.

You will also complete one non-exam assessment (NEA), which will count for 20% of your final mark. This coursework is completed during your learning and sent to your exam centre for marking. You’ll be given more details once you’re enrolled.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Why study A-level English Language online?

Studying this English Literature A-level course online will allow you to fit your studies into your busy lifestyle. As you complete this engaging, interactive course in your own time and at your own pace, you’ll have the unlimited support of your expert tutor to guide you. You’ll receive a clear induction and well-structured assignments to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to prepare you for the exam.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.
Who should study A-level English Literature?

This AQA A-level English Literature course is ideal for anyone who wishes to study English at university or to gain some of the skills most sought after by employers, like critical thinking, research and analysis and creative expression.

Was this useful? Yes No
Thank you for the feedback. If this hasn't answered your question, then contact us to ask.

Courses Taught by Experts

Penny

STEM and History of Art

Marine biology, jellyfish conservationist, hairdresser, fitness instructor… I have an eclectic backstory! Art is my passion and one of my proudest moments was achieving my Masters in Fine Art. I then requalified as an Art teacher to share my knowledge with my students. For most of my career, I’ve supported vulnerable students with additional needs such as SEMH and SEN.

penny-tc_compressed

Sarah

Education and Childcare

My 30-year stride in education started with childminding, to working with pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. I then tutored in a national reading programme and went on to become a Higher-Level TA. I’m elated to say I graduated with a First-Class BA Honours Degree when I was 50 – living proof that it’s never too late to chase your dreams!

Sarah

Faye

Early Years

Beginning my career as an early years practitioner inspired me to step into the world of teaching. I have since elevated my skillset through a range of qualifications including L3 in Assessing Vocational Achievement, L3 in Education & Training and L4 in Internal Quality Assurance. I’m a big kid at heart; I love Disney movies and also dabble in photography.  

faye-h_compressed

Laura

Health care

For 10+ years, my passion for helping learners develop and grow has driven my career as a teacher. To help me progress even further, I am currently studying to achieve the IQA award. I love reading and I’m a self-professed Harry Potter fan. Talk to me about all things history, rock music, tattoos and true crime podcasts. 

Laura, tutor

Kelly

Counselling and Psychology

I always knew that a career focused around helping people achieve their goals was perfect for me. That’s why I became a tutor. I love to see my student’s confidence flourish as they progress through their courses. It’s important to help them fit their learning goals around their personal commitments so they have the best chance of success! 

Kelly, tutor
Excellent trustpilot rating 1,716

Are you ready to change your world?

We appreciate being bold is easier said than done. This is why the team at Oxbridge aim to help you feel confident and rest assured in taking your next steps. Our friendly, knowledgeable Learning advisers are always on hand to offer you the best guidance.