A-Level English Literature (OCR H472)

Course Overview

This course is perfect for students who love to read and delve into the meaning of language. We study a range of texts including novels, plays and poetry. The earliest texts pre-date Shakespeare and the most modern have just been published. For example, we study the genre of dystopia exploring texts such as The Handmaid’s Tale and Nineteen Eighty-Four.

The study of A Level English literature encourages you to think deeply about the style and contexts of texts. You will work both independently and in groups discussing and debating literature and how to interpret it. You will develop your reading, writing and analytical skills.

The course is 80% examined and 20% coursework. There is the opportunity to attend theatre productions and be part of a reading group. English literature has a good reputation with universities and is a useful qualification to have for any humanities degree. 

Employers highly respect the rigor and quality of the course. English literature provides a firm supportive basis for any course or employment requiring language skills of any kind. 

You will study:

  • Component 01: Drama and Poetry Pre-1900
  • Component 02: Comparative and Contextual Study
  • Component 03: Literature Post-1900 (Coursework)

“The best thing about English is that you are encouraged to develop your own ideas.  Discussion is really important, and I think this prepares you for university.”

St Ivo Student

Course Code: H472

Minimum Entry Requirements

  • A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English 
  • Grade 5+ in GCSE English Literature

Exam Board: OCR

Assessment

  • 80% Exam
    • Component 1 – 40%
    • Component 2 – 40%
  • 20% Coursework

Choosing your post-16 options is an important decision, and St Ivo Academy Sixth Form is here to guide you. Applications are welcome from students in St Ives and beyond via the MyChoice16 platform.

Step-by-step application process

  1. Log in to your MyChoice16 account.
  2. Select ‘My Applications’. To start a new application, click ‘Start a new Application’; to continue an existing one, click ‘Continue’ next to your application.
  3. Complete all sections of your Profile Template if this is your first application. For additional applications, only ‘Course Choices’ needs to be completed.
  4. Qualifications will be uploaded by the school—this section can be skipped. Your form tutor will add a reference.
  5. Complete any remaining fields or checkboxes. Click ‘Send Application’ to submit.
  6. Your application status will update (eg. Sent, Schools Hold). The school will review your application to ensure it meets the requirements, and you may be asked to discuss it with a teacher.
  7. Monitor your application regularly and respond promptly to any notifications.
  8. All applicants will be invited to an interview before a provisional offer is made.

 

Media & Communication

  • Journalist / Editor
  • Copywriter / Content Creator
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Publishing Assistant / Editor

Creative & Arts

  • Writer / Author / Playwright
  • Screenwriter
  • Theatre / Film Production roles
  • Arts Administrator

Education & Research

  • Teacher / Lecturer in English
  • Academic Researcher
  • Librarian

Other Professional Roles

  • Lawyer / Legal Professional (via further study)
  • Marketing / Advertising
  • Civil Service / Policy Roles

Nazreen Khan – Nazreen.khan@astreastivo.org

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