IGCSE English Literature | Cranford School

An introduction to GCSE English Literature

Why study IGCSE English Literature?

Literature in English is rich and influential. It reflects the experiences of people from many countries and times and contributes to our sense of cultural identity. Literature can present familiar settings and dilemmas one moment and then ask readers to empathise with situations and characters that are beyond their experience the next. Literature can increase enjoyment and understanding of positive experiences and also help process problems and dilemmas by suggesting ways to deal with them.

Pupils learn to become imaginative, reflective and critical readers of short stories, novels, poetry and drama, gaining access to the pleasure, knowledge and experience that English Literature offers. Pupils will study modern and classic works of English Literature and they will also encounter literature from different world cultures.

English Literature in the Sixth Form

English Literature A-level sees students studying diverse and sophisticated texts, exploring both the themes and literary devices employed. Studying the influences of the contexts of literature is important to the appreciation of Literature at A-level and the consideration of critical interpretations and ideologies provides a framework for developing solid debating skills. Both a modern drama text and a Shakespeare play are analysed, so there are plenty of opportunities for theatre visits during the two-year course.

The course also incorporates the study of contemporary poetry and a comparative study of novels from different historical periods, as well as a non-examined unit which can be tailored to the interests of the individual student. A-level English Literature involves extensive and intensive discussion and debate, in addition to opportunities for in depth independent study.