WG6 – Sixth Form Induction Information and Tasks
SUBJECT
English Literature (WGSB)
In this subject you will be expected to:
Undertake regular reading and writing activities
Research the social, historical, cultural and critical context of the texts that we will be studying
Contribute fully to the activities undertaken in all lessons
Complete two pieces of coursework in Year 12 (total 2500 words) and one piece of coursework in Year
13 (3000 words)
You will need to have an interest in:
Exploring a broad range of ideas, expanding your learning by reading a range of different texts from
different times and discussing your opinions on the texts studied and the opinions of others.
You will also have an interest in reading a range of challenging material.
Independent learning in this subject requires: (5hrs of independent study per
week)
You will be expected to read the texts in advance and will be supported through guided reading activities.
Additionally, you will be given a wider reading list that will support you in developing your understanding
of the texts studied.
You will also be set a range of extended writing activities and essays for homework. This will be
approximately one essay per fortnight.
Suggested reading List
‘Vernon God Little’ – DBC Pierre
‘Trainspotting’ – Irvine Welsh
‘Atonement’ – Ian McEwan
‘Wuthering Heights’ – Emily Bronte
A selection of poetry by Simon Armitage, Grace Nichols and Philip Larkin (focused on the theme of the
struggle for identity)
Useful Websites:
Sparknotes.com
Gradesaver.com
Pinkmonkey.com
Examples of Independent Study tasks:
How does DBC Pierre present Martirio as a microcosm for American society in ‘Vernon God Little’?
Information on Coursework deadlines
January 2014 (Year 12 coursework)
February 2015 (Year 13 courswork)
Future Career aspirations linked to this subject are:
English Literature is a highly respected and academic subject. Form many students, this course leads on
to university courses in English. However, a number of students have opted for courses in Law,
Publishing, Creative Writing, Journalism, Sports Science, History and Economics. The close reading
skills you will acquire through this rigorous course will serve you well in a range of careers.
Induction Task &
Success Criteria
As students of A Level English Literature, you will be expected to
undertake a range of independent reading tasks in order to develop your
confidence as an autonomous reader, as well as your skills of analysis.
The tasks in the induction booklet will give you an excellent
understanding of the types of activities we will be undertaking in Years
12 and 13.
Objectives
1. To understand the themes presented in a novel of your own
choice
2. To know the events of the novel and how the main characters are
presented.
3. To be able to appreciate the structure and events of DBC Pierre’s
‘Vernon God Little’ and how the writer uses satire in the novel.
Tasks:


Prepare a presentation on a prose study (novel) of your choice;
Read ‘Vernon God Little’ by DBC Pierre
Good luck.
Deadline
First week back in September 2014