ENGLISH LITERATURE
Aims The English Literature course provides a rigorous and stimulating exploration of a variety of ambitious literary works from different genres, traditions, places and periods. Its aim is to promote enthusiastic and independent-minded students who are at ease in the discussion of and writing about texts.
Skills The course nurtures capable, thoughtful writers. Students are encouraged to write structured and analytical essays with clear, well-evidenced and focused arguments. Emphasis is placed on oral as well as written approaches to literature; students are taught to discuss, to listen and to work with others. Attention is paid to the development of research and presentation skills. Students are encouraged to develop an ability to respond critically and independently to features of content and style, to speak and write about text with clarity and insight, and to develop an enthusiasm for reading.
Content Students explore a wide range of literary texts with at least four texts across all genres and historic periods, including Shakespeare, and at least one text from another culture. In addition to the study of set texts for termly exams, students develop their analytical writing and critical thinking through debate, drama, and imaginative writing.
Enrichment Students are taken beyond the requirements of the examination syllabus through theatre trips, our Middle School Literary Society and Verve, our creative writing magazine, as well as lots of in-class focus on independent reading. The course represents an essential part of students’ formative development and teaches a wide range of skills that are necessary for the Sixth Form, university and the workplace.
THE MIDDLE SCHOOL | AT SEVENOAKS 33