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    CCEA as-level English Literature

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    Course overview

    The CCEA as-level English Literature specification covers 2 topics with 6 learning objectives (601/8368/8). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    • 2 topics
    • 6 learning objectives
    Ofqual Regulated: 601/8368/8

    Official Regulatory Specification

    Regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) in England

    View on Ofqual Register (opens the official government register in a new tab)
    Qualification Number (QN)
    601/8368/8
    Awarding Organisation
    CCEA
    Regulatory Type
    GCE AS Level
    National Level & Units
    as-level • 2 units
    Sector Subject Area: Languages, literature and culture of the British Isles
    This qualification is officially accredited under the national framework. Credits and certified outcomes are recognised by employers, further education colleges, and training providers throughout the UK.
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    About this course

    About CCEA as-level English Literature

    This CCEA AS-Level English Literature course invites you to explore a rich range of poetry, drama, and prose from different periods, developing your skills in close reading, critical analysis, and independent interpretation. You will study texts that engage with themes such as love, power, identity, and social change, and learn to connect form, structure, and language to meaning.

    The specification is structured to build your analytical confidence through two examined components: one focusing on poetry and drama, and the other on prose. You will also develop your ability to write comparative essays and respond to unseen texts, preparing you for the demands of A-Level and beyond.

    Assessment Structure

    The CCEA AS-Level English Literature qualification is assessed through two written examination papers, each worth 50% of the total AS grade. Paper 1, titled 'The Study of Poetry and Drama', is a 2-hour exam worth 80 marks, where you answer questions on a set poetry anthology and a set drama text. Paper 2, titled 'The Study of Prose', is a 1-hour 30-minute exam worth 60 marks, focusing on a set prose text and an unseen prose extract. Both papers require you to write analytical essays demonstrating close reading and contextual understanding. There is no coursework component at AS level, and the total marks available are 140.

    Why Choose CCEA?

    • CCEA offers a clear and manageable structure with only two examined papers, allowing you to focus your revision on a smaller set of texts compared to some other boards. This can reduce stress and help you achieve deeper textual knowledge.
    • The specification includes a diverse range of texts, from classic to contemporary, and encourages you to explore connections between literature and its social, historical, and cultural contexts, which can make your studies more engaging and relevant.
    • CCEA is the regional exam board for Northern Ireland, so if you are studying there, your teachers and school are likely to be very familiar with the specification, ensuring you receive tailored support and resources.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What texts will I study for CCEA AS-Level English Literature?
    The specific texts can vary depending on your school, but CCEA provides a set list for each component. For poetry, you will study a selection from the CCEA AS anthology, which includes poets such as Philip Larkin, Sylvia Plath, and Seamus Heaney. For drama, you might study plays like 'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams or 'Othello' by William Shakespeare. For prose, you could study novels such as 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald or 'Atonement' by Ian McEwan. Your teacher will choose from the approved lists, so check with them for your exact texts.
    Is there a coursework component in CCEA AS-Level English Literature?
    No, there is no coursework at AS level. Your entire grade is based on two written exams taken at the end of the year. This can be an advantage if you prefer to show your knowledge under exam conditions, but it means you need to be well-prepared for timed essay writing. The exams are designed to test your analytical skills and your ability to construct coherent arguments under pressure.
    How does CCEA AS-Level English Literature prepare me for A-Level?
    The AS course is designed to build the foundational skills you will need for A-Level. You will develop close reading, critical analysis, and essay-writing techniques, as well as the ability to explore texts in their contexts. The texts you study at AS can also be used as a springboard for A-Level, where you will study additional texts and more complex themes. The assessment style is similar, so you will be well-prepared for the demands of the A-Level exams.
    What is the difference between CCEA and other exam boards like AQA or Edexcel for English Literature?
    The main differences lie in the set texts, the structure of assessments, and the weighting of components. CCEA tends to have a smaller number of examined papers and a more focused text list, which some students find easier to manage. Additionally, CCEA is the board used in Northern Ireland, so if you are there, it is likely your school's choice. Other boards may offer more flexibility in text choices or include coursework components. It's important to consider your own strengths and preferences when choosing a board.
    Are there any resources or past papers available for CCEA AS-Level English Literature?
    Yes, CCEA provides a range of resources on their official website, including past papers, mark schemes, and specimen assessment materials. Your school may also have access to textbooks and revision guides specifically tailored to the CCEA specification. Additionally, online platforms like MasteryMind offer revision notes and practice questions designed to help you succeed. It's a good idea to practice with past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and question styles.
    Assessment and exam guidance

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    CCEA
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

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