A Level English Literature Syllabus: A Clear, Simple Guide (2025 Edition)

31/05/2025 / English Tuition

A Level English Literature is a rich and rewarding subject that challenges students to think deeply about the world through language, culture and history. If your child has chosen to study English Literature at A Level, you may be wondering what exactly the course entails and how you can help them make the most of it.

Whether or not you studied English Literature yourself, it’s natural to want a clearer understanding of the syllabus, how the subject is assessed, and how your child can succeed. This guide aims to explain the A Level English Literature course in a straightforward, parent-friendly way—so you can feel confident supporting your child through their studies.

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What Is A Level English Literature?

A Level English Literature is a rigorous and intellectually stimulating subject that centres on the close reading and in-depth analysis of a range of literary texts. These texts span different forms—novels, plays and poetry—and are drawn from a wide variety of periods and genres. Through their study, students explore how writers use language to convey complex ideas about human relationships, morality, identity, politics, and the social and cultural issues of their time. The course encourages young people to think critically about what they read, to question underlying meanings, and to appreciate the ways in which literature reflects and shapes society.

At the heart of the subject is the skill of interpretation. Students learn to identify literary techniques—such as metaphor, structure, narrative voice and rhythm—and consider how these devices influence meaning and engage the reader. They are also encouraged to think about different perspectives and critical viewpoints, which helps them develop a broader and more nuanced understanding of the texts they study.

Most schools follow specifications set by major UK exam boards such as AQA, OCR or Edexcel. Although the choice of set texts and the format of assessments may differ slightly between these boards, the essential aims of the course remain consistent. All students are expected to analyse texts with precision, show a thoughtful engagement with language and structure, and situate their interpretations within the appropriate historical, social and literary contexts.

For example, when studying a Shakespeare play, pupils will not only consider character and plot, but also examine the influence of the Elizabethan worldview, the role of the theatre at the time, and how modern audiences might respond differently. Similarly, in poetry or prose, students are taught to recognise how a writer’s background, historical setting or intended audience can shape the way a text is written and interpreted.

The course also places a strong emphasis on essay writing. Pupils must learn to construct clear, well-argued responses supported by textual evidence. They are encouraged to develop their own critical voice, to compare ideas across texts, and to respond thoughtfully to alternative interpretations. Over time, they build a valuable toolkit of analytical, evaluative and writing skills that will serve them well not only in English but in many other subjects and future academic or professional paths.

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What Will My Child Study?

The course usually consists of three main types of literary study:

Drama

This component typically includes a Shakespeare play, such as Othello, King Lear or The Tempest, alongside another dramatic text from a different period or genre—possibly a modern play like A Streetcar Named Desire or a classic like Dr Faustus. Students consider themes, structure, characterisation, and dramatic techniques, and learn to analyse how plays are written for performance.

Prose

In the prose section, students study two novels—often linked by theme or genre. For instance, they may compare Frankenstein and The Handmaid’s Tale in a unit on dystopia or Wuthering Heights and Tess of the d’Urbervilles in a unit on love through the ages. This comparison helps develop skills in thematic analysis, narrative structure and literary context.

Poetry

Pupils study a range of poetry across time. This may include a specific poet or poetry collection—such as John Donne, Carol Ann Duffy or the Metaphysical Poets—as well as an anthology covering multiple authors from a particular era or movement. Analysing poetry helps students develop close reading skills and the ability to interpret language, imagery, and form.

In many specifications, at least one text will be post-2000 to ensure modern literature is part of the syllabus.

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Coursework (Non-Examined Assessment)

One significant and distinctive component of A Level English Literature is the non-examined assessment, often abbreviated as the NEA and commonly referred to as coursework. This part of the course typically accounts for 20% of the final A Level grade and is completed during the second year of study. It offers students an invaluable opportunity to take ownership of their learning by selecting two texts and conducting a detailed, comparative analysis in essay form.

The NEA is designed to assess a student’s ability to read texts closely, to construct well-reasoned and original arguments, and to place their analysis within relevant literary and historical contexts. It is one of the few parts of the course where students have a real say in what they study. While the texts they choose must be approved by their teacher and meet the requirements of the exam board in terms of complexity and literary merit, there is considerable scope for personal interest and independent exploration.

Students may choose to compare two novels, or a novel with a play, or even prose with poetry, as long as the pairing allows for meaningful literary discussion and a balanced comparison. This flexibility allows them to explore issues and themes that genuinely engage them—such as race, gender, class, identity, memory, or morality—through the lens of literature. For example, a student might examine the theme of oppression in The Colour Purple and A Doll’s House or explore personal identity and mental health in The Bell Jar and Never Let Me Go.

The freedom to select their own texts and develop their own thesis makes the NEA a rewarding but also demanding task. Pupils are expected to undertake independent research, read critical essays and engage with different interpretations before arriving at their own well-supported conclusions. In doing so, they practise the kind of literary scholarship that is expected at university level, and they develop essential skills in managing a long-term academic project—skills such as time management, critical thinking, planning, drafting, and editing.

Teachers provide guidance throughout the process, but the expectation is that students will take the lead in shaping and refining their work. The final essay is usually between 2,000 and 3,000 words and must include both close textual analysis and reference to wider literary criticism. It’s a substantial piece of work that requires careful reading, clear argumentation and a mature, independent approach.

For many students, the NEA is a highlight of the A Level course. It allows them to pursue areas of literature that speak to their own interests or experiences, and it gives them the chance to demonstrate the full range of their analytical and writing abilities outside the constraints of timed examination conditions. For parents, supporting your child during this stage might involve helping them to manage their time, encouraging them to talk through their ideas, or simply providing a quiet space where they can read, write and reflect.

Request your private English Literature tutor here >

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How the Course Is Assessed

Assessment typically consists of two or three written exam papers plus the coursework component. While the structure varies slightly by exam board, most A Level English Literature courses follow a similar pattern:

• Paper 1 – Focuses on drama and poetry, including a Shakespeare play.
• Paper 2 – Covers prose, often with a comparative element.
• NEA (Coursework) – A comparative critical essay on two chosen texts.

Each exam is usually two to three hours long and involves writing extended essay responses. Students are expected to show understanding of both language and context, analyse writers’ methods, and construct coherent, evidence-based arguments. Some questions may be open-ended or include an unseen text, testing pupils’ ability to respond to new material in an exam setting.

Below is a parent-friendly, easy-to-read comparison table outlining the structure and key features of A Level English Literature across the three main UK exam boards: AQA, OCR, and Edexcel (based on the most current specifications for 2025).

Exam Board	Assessment Components	Texts Studied	Exam Paper Focus	Coursework (NEA)	Key Features
AQA (Spec A)	Paper 1: Love Through the Ages (3 hrs, 40%) Paper 2: Texts in Shared Contexts (2.5 hrs, 40%) NEA: Independent Critical Study (20%)	Shakespeare, pre-1900 poetry & prose, modern texts (post-1945)	Thematic approach with comparative questions, includes unseen prose	Yes – 2 texts, one pre-1900	Choice of Literature A or B; strong focus on theme and context
OCR	Paper 1: Drama and Poetry pre-1900 (2.5 hrs, 40%) Paper 2: Comparative and Contextual Study (2.5 hrs, 40%) NEA: Literature Post-1900 (20%)	Shakespeare, pre-1900 drama/poetry, modern texts	Historical focus; includes unseen text comparison	Yes – 2 modern texts, flexible genres	Strong on context and critical viewpoints
Edexcel	Paper 1: Drama (2 hrs 15 mins, 30%) Paper 2: Prose (1 hr 15 mins, 20%) Paper 3: Poetry (2 hrs 15 mins, 30%) NEA: Coursework (20%)	Shakespeare, modern and classic drama, poetry across time, prose	Separate papers for each genre, includes unseen poetry	Yes – 2 texts, student’s choice	Structured layout; clear genre divisions

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Skills Your Child Will Develop

A Level English Literature is about far more than just reading novels, plays and poetry. It is a subject that encourages deep thought, careful attention to language, and an appreciation for how stories reflect the world around us. As your child moves through the course, they will develop a wide range of skills that not only support their success in English but are also highly valuable across other academic subjects and future career paths.

One of the most important skills students develop is critical thinking. They are taught to look beyond surface meanings, to ask challenging questions, and to consider multiple interpretations of a text. This means learning how to weigh evidence, form judgements, and understand how context shapes meaning. These analytical skills are highly applicable to subjects like History, Politics, and Philosophy, where evaluating arguments and exploring perspectives is key.

Close reading is another central part of the course. This involves paying careful attention to how writers use language—examining tone, structure, imagery and symbolism. Students learn to notice the subtleties of a text and to appreciate how every detail contributes to the whole. This sharpens their attention to detail and strengthens their ability to interpret information, which is valuable across many disciplines.

Writing is also a major focus. Throughout the course, your child will be guided in crafting structured, persuasive essays. They will learn how to build a coherent argument, organise their thoughts clearly, and support their ideas with appropriate evidence. These are transferable writing skills that are vital not only in English but in many other essay-based subjects and future professional settings.

The course also includes an element of independent research, particularly through the non-examined assessment (coursework). Here, students are encouraged to choose their own texts, plan and conduct research, and write a detailed comparative essay. This process nurtures independence and initiative and introduces them to the kind of academic work they will be expected to undertake at university level.

Given the variety and depth of content, students quickly learn the importance of time management. Whether it’s keeping up with long texts, revising key quotes, or planning essays, they develop habits that will serve them well in any future study or job that involves meeting deadlines and managing workload.

As students grow more confident in discussing and writing about complex ideas, they also find their own voice. Being able to express opinions clearly and respectfully is an essential life skill. English Literature provides many opportunities for students to refine this ability, both in the classroom and through written work.

These skills—analytical thinking, precise reading, effective communication, research, independence, and time management—are widely recognised and respected. Whether your child goes on to study Law, Sociology, Media, Education, or the Arts, the foundation built in A Level English Literature will be of lasting value. It is a subject that helps students not only succeed academically but also grow as thoughtful, articulate, and insightful individuals.

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Supporting Your Child’s Progress

Parents don’t need to be literature experts to provide meaningful support. Here are a few practical ways to help:

• Encourage regular reading – both of set texts and wider literature
• Discuss ideas and themes – even informal conversations can build confidence
• Create a quiet space for study – especially important during coursework and revision periods
• Help with essay planning – brainstorming structure or offering to proofread
• Stay informed about deadlines – particularly for coursework drafts and assessments

You might also encourage your child to read online literary criticism or attend performances of their set plays where possible. Experiencing texts beyond the page can deepen understanding and make revision more engaging.

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When to Consider Tuition

While many students enjoy English Literature, the leap from GCSE to A Level can be steep. Some find it difficult to adjust to the level of depth required, while others may need help with essay structure or interpreting more complex texts.

At Principal Tutors, we offer one-to-one English Literature tuition with fully qualified UK teachers who understand the demands of the current syllabus. Whether your child needs help with close reading, critical writing, or coursework planning, our tutors provide expert, tailored support that builds both skills and confidence.

Our lessons are delivered online for convenience, with flexible scheduling and a simple pay-as-you-go model. Every tutor is DBS-checked and experienced in supporting students with a range of learning styles and abilities.

Call us on 0800 772 0974 or fill in our quick online tutor request form to get started today.

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