English Literature
Edexcel GCSE
Paper 1: Shakespeare and Post 1914 Literature (50% of the overall grade)
Paper 2: 19th Century Novel and Poetry since 1789 (50% of the overall grade)
Outline of Subject
Students will study highly engaging and challenging books, plays and poetry from a range of writers, genres and time periods to support them in evaluating literary works. The GCSE will provide them with a richer cultural understanding of the world around them (past and present) and develop critical thinking and analytical writing skills integral to continued learning and future career and employment routes.
What will I learn?
| Year | Autumn Term | Spring Term | Summer Term |
| 10 |
Main Literary text: An Inspector Calls by JB Priestley
Linked poetry from the conflict anthology: Cousin Kate by Christina Rossetti, Catrin by Gillian Clarke and Class Game by Mary Casey. |
Main Literary text: Jekyll and Hyde 19th Century Gothic Horror
Linked poetry from the conflict anthology: A Poison Tree by William Blake, and Destruction of Sennacherib by Lord Byron |
Poetry from the conflict anthology focusing on the theme of war: The Man He Killed by Thomas Hardy, Belfast Confetti by Ciaran Carson, Exposure by Wilfred Owen, The Charge of the Light Brigade by Alfred Lord Tennyson, War Photographer by Carole Satyamurti, Poppies by Jane Weir and What Were They Like? By Denise Levertov |
| 11 |
Main Literary text: The Tempest by William Shakespeare
Linked Fiction: No Problem by Benjamin Zephaniah, Extract from the Prelude by William Wordsworth, Half Caste by John Agard |
Curriculum content: Revision of all literary texts, fulfils national curriculum objectives at KS4
Stimulus: Revision of all set texts (for English Literature) to prepare for English Literature Examination |
REVISION AND STUDENTS SIT GCSE EXAMINATION |
How will I learn?
Students will develop skills to analyse how the language, form, structure and context of texts can create meanings and effects through characterisation, plot and themes encountered. They will learn how to think critically about texts in order to establish assured personal viewpoints as well as learning a range of quotations off-by-heart in preparation for the closed book examination.
Where will it take me?
A good English Literature GCSE grade is desirable for any student who wishes to enter Sixth Form, to continue into higher education and to secure employment. Careers directly linked with English Literature include Author, Broadcaster, Actor/Actress, Advertising Executive, Lawyer, Creative Director, Politician, Librarian, TV Producer, Social worker, Sales Assistant, Editor, Journalist, Psychologist.
Further information:
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/english-literature-2015.html