| 6th | 7th | |
|---|---|---|
| Higher |  |
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| AS Level | |
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| A Level | |
For those intending to go on to study A-Level, there will be two dedicated Higher sets where two of the AS modules are integrated into the Higher course. This means that the texts studied will be of an advanced quality and be chosen from the AS-Level syllabus. "A" Level is taught by team teaching. In this way the talents of all teachers in the department are exploited and students are presented with a variety of approaches.
Skills
Success at A-Level is founded on a distinctively subtle process of learning. The basic skills of written expression and organisation of material are developed within a context where we acknowledge that prior imaginative involvement is essential if students are to write with any authority. To this is added a rigorous demand for articulate responses, of a high technical quality, to a number of advanced texts.
AS & A2 Modules
Entry is through Higher but only for those who have taken the first AS-Level Unit at the same time. A candidate ought to have gained at least a grade B at Higher.
AS |
A2 |
(1) Poetry and Prose 1800-1945 (Closed text)
Section B: Prose – the study of one prose text from this period |
(3) Drama and Poetry pre-1800 (Closed text)
Section B: Drama and Poetry pre-1800 –one question on each of two texts |
(2) Coursework Post 1900
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(4) Coursework: Texts in Time.
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Assessment
In the coursework Units, though all texts may be taught, there is a strict limit of two drafts for each piece which must be a result of each candidate’s own unaided efforts. |
ProgressionThe study of English Literature is first and foremost an imaginative engagement that offers the opportunity to develop socially, morally and psychologically. It also demands a keen development of the capacity for critical questioning and independent thinking. As such it could be seen as being useful preparation for almost any sphere of activity. In terms of entrance to university, it can either be studied in its own right, or it can serve as a useful opportunity to develop the skills of argument and expression that find an important place in many other fields. |
Section A: Poetry – the study of selected poems of one poet from this period
Section A: Shakespeare – one question on a play
Two tasks totalling 3000 words on three texts from different genres: close critical analysis on one text and an essay exploring links between the two other texts. One text must have been published after 1990.
One extended essay of 3000 words comparing texts. At least three texts from different genres. The study must be on a particular topic such as: satire, gothic, a movement or historical period, etc.
As can be seen from the above, there is a mixture of internal and external assessment.This page is: Edinburgh Academy / curriculum / english / alevel.htm
