Literature in English
9695
Literature in English at sixth form delves into the rich tapestry of literary works, fostering an in-depth understanding of diverse genres and themes. Through intensive coursework, students analyze classic and contemporary texts, honing critical thinking and interpretative skills.
The curriculum nurtures a profound appreciation for literature, preparing students for advanced literary studies and cultivating lifelong literary engagement.
COURSE CONTENT
English Literature places great emphasis on students’ personal responses to the texts studied. The initial difficulties of understanding the texts can be focused on in class, but the response can only be developed independently – it is this response that is key to good results in assessment tasks and examinations; understanding of the meaning and knowledge of the storyline is presumed. The onus is on the student to read widely and thoughtfully to research and develop a “broad” knowledge of the authors and their contemporaries. Group work and class discussions and presentations are features of the subject. Wherever possible, responses are stimulated with audio and video materials.Students study eight texts in the course of two years, four for the AS examination and another four for the A2 examination.
Students take the AS exam in May/June of the U6th year and complete the A2 examination in the following November. Students will study poetry, drama and prose fiction, learning the exclusive and shared features of these genres. Students will study literature from different time periods from the play of Shakespeare to contemporary works such as of Andrea Levy.
This school selects papers 1 and 2 for the AS-level. Paper one comprises drama and poetry – we study a selection of poetry and one drama text). Paper two comprises prose and one unseen text that may be poetry, prose or drama. Students are prepared for these papers during the first year.
In the second year, the A2 texts are studied. These texts are more difficult and the questioning in the papers more sophisticated. Students will do papers three and four as their compulsory A2 examination component. Paper three comprises a Shakespearean drama and one other drama text from a different time period. For paper four, students will look at poetry and prose from Pre- and Post-1900.
ASSESSMENTS AND EXAMINATIONS
Students are taught to write both critical and textual analysis essays:
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Paper 1. Write two essays from a selection of drama and poetry.
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Paper 2. Write two essays from a selection of prose and one unseen text.
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Paper 3. Write two essays from a selection of Shakespeare’s plays and one drama text.
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Paper 4. Write two essays from a selection of pre- and post- 1900 poetry and prose.
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A successful study of English Literature demonstrates a mature understanding of the language and a flexible mind. In particular, sensitivity towards others is developed, and an acceptance of the differing values in other cultures. Many tertiary education courses can be followed, either in Literature or subjects requiring skillful handling of language, both in Brunei and overseas.
In career terms, a good qualification in English Literature benefits many occupations, from law to senior management, teaching to government service. Above all, the subject encourages communication skills, an understanding of the diversity of humanity, and questions what it is to be a human being.