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    OCR as-level English Literature

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    Course overview

    The OCR as-level English Literature specification covers 2 topics with 6 learning objectives (601/4726/X). 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: 601/4726/X

    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)
    601/4726/X
    Awarding Organisation
    OCR
    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 OCR as-level English Literature

    Welcome to OCR AS-Level English Literature, a course that invites you to explore the richness of literary expression across poetry, prose, and drama. You will study a range of texts from different periods, including Shakespeare, and develop skills in close reading, critical analysis, and contextual understanding. The course encourages you to form independent interpretations and to appreciate how writers use language, form, and structure to shape meaning.

    The OCR specification is structured to balance the study of canonical texts with opportunities for personal response. You will examine how texts relate to their historical and cultural contexts, and you will learn to compare and contrast different works. By the end of the course, you will have honed your ability to write analytically and to articulate sophisticated arguments, preparing you for further study or a range of careers.

    Assessment Structure

    OCR AS-Level English Literature is assessed through two written examination papers, each worth 50% of the total qualification. Paper 1, 'Shakespeare and Poetry Pre-1900', is a 1 hour 30 minute exam worth 50 marks, where you answer one question on a Shakespeare play and one on a pre-1900 poetry text. Paper 2, 'Drama and Prose Post-1900', is also 1 hour 30 minutes and worth 50 marks, requiring one essay on a post-1900 drama text and one on a post-1900 prose text. Both papers include extract-based and open-book questions, testing your ability to analyse language, form, structure, and context. There is no coursework component at AS-Level.

    Why Choose OCR?

    • OCR's AS-Level English Literature offers a clear and straightforward structure with two equally weighted papers, allowing you to focus your revision effectively. The specification includes a balanced mix of classic and modern texts, giving you a broad literary foundation.
    • The exam questions are designed to reward personal interpretation and critical thinking, not just memorisation of content. OCR also provides a range of free resources and exemplar materials to support your studies, making it a popular choice for students who enjoy exploring texts in depth.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between OCR AS-Level and A-Level English Literature?
    The AS-Level is a standalone qualification that is typically taken in the first year of sixth form. It covers half the content of the full A-Level and is assessed through two exams at the end of the year. If you continue to the second year, you will study additional texts and sit further exams to achieve the full A-Level. The AS-Level can be used as a stepping stone, but it does not contribute to your final A-Level grade if you choose to continue.
    Which texts will I study for OCR AS-Level English Literature?
    The exact texts depend on your school or college, but OCR offers a set list for each paper. For Paper 1, you will study one Shakespeare play from a choice of four, such as 'Hamlet', 'Measure for Measure', 'The Tempest', or 'Twelfth Night', and a selection of pre-1900 poetry from a named poet, like John Donne, Robert Browning, or Christina Rossetti. For Paper 2, you will study one post-1900 drama and one post-1900 prose text from a list that includes works like 'A Streetcar Named Desire', 'Translations', 'The Great Gatsby', and 'The Handmaid's Tale'. Your teacher will guide you on which texts your centre has chosen.
    Is there any coursework or non-exam assessment in OCR AS-Level English Literature?
    No, there is no coursework component in the OCR AS-Level English Literature qualification. All assessment is through two written examinations at the end of the course. This can be an advantage if you prefer exams over extended essays, but it means you need to be well-prepared to write analytical essays under timed conditions.
    How can I revise effectively for the OCR AS-Level English Literature exams?
    Effective revision for OCR AS-Level English Literature involves a mix of close reading, context research, and practice essays. Create detailed notes on each text, focusing on key themes, characters, and literary techniques. Use the OCR specification to understand the assessment objectives, and practise answering past paper questions under timed conditions. It's also helpful to discuss your ideas with peers or teachers to deepen your interpretations. Remember to memorise key quotes and analyse them in detail, as this will strengthen your exam responses.
    What are the assessment objectives for OCR AS-Level English Literature?
    OCR AS-Level English Literature is assessed against four assessment objectives (AOs). AO1 requires you to articulate informed, personal, and creative responses to literary texts, using appropriate terminology and concepts. AO2 focuses on analysing ways in which meanings are shaped in literary texts, including language, form, and structure. AO3 involves exploring the relationships between texts and their contexts, such as historical, social, and cultural influences. AO4 is about exploring connections across literary texts, which is particularly relevant for the comparative elements of the exams. Understanding these AOs will help you structure your essays to meet the examiners' expectations.
    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

    OCR
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name or select

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Account of process or features

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with BUSINESS-FACING outcomes

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine methodically showing cause→effect→outcome

    Evaluate
    9-12 marks

    Judge, weigh up evidence, reach SYNOPTIC conclusion

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