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    WJEC as-level English Literature

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    Course overview

    The WJEC as-level English Literature specification covers 2 topics with 6 learning objectives (601/5405/6). 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: 601/5405/6

    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)
    601/5405/6
    Awarding Organisation
    WJEC
    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 WJEC as-level English Literature

    WJEC AS-Level English Literature offers a rich and varied course of study, inviting you to explore the power of language and storytelling across poetry, prose, and drama. You will develop critical reading skills, learn to analyse how writers craft meaning, and engage with texts from different periods and genres, fostering a deep appreciation of literary heritage and contemporary voices.

    The specification is structured to build your analytical and evaluative skills progressively. You will study a range of set texts, including a Shakespeare play, a poetry collection, and a prose text, and you will learn to write critically about them, considering contexts and critical interpretations. This AS course provides a solid foundation for further study and cultivates skills valuable in any career.

    Assessment Structure

    The WJEC AS-Level English Literature qualification is assessed through two written examination papers, each contributing 50% of the AS grade. Paper 1, 'Poetry and Drama', is a 2-hour exam worth 80 marks, and Paper 2, 'Prose', is a 2-hour exam worth 80 marks. Both papers are externally assessed and include a mix of extract-based questions and extended essay questions. There is no coursework component at AS level, so your final grade is determined entirely by your performance in these two exams.

    Why Choose WJEC?

    • WJEC offers a clear and manageable specification with a limited number of set texts, allowing for in-depth study and reducing the pressure of covering a vast amount of content. This is ideal for students who prefer to focus their analytical skills on a smaller number of texts.
    • The assessment structure is straightforward, with two equally weighted written papers, each focusing on a distinct literary genre. This clarity helps you to prepare effectively and understand exactly what is expected in each exam.
    • WJEC's English Literature specification is designed to be accessible and engaging, with a choice of texts that includes both classic and contemporary works. This allows you to study literature that resonates with you while still meeting rigorous academic standards.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between WJEC 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 separately. If you continue to the full A-Level, your AS grade does not count towards it; instead, you will sit A-Level exams at the end of the second year. The AS course provides a solid foundation for the A-Level, but you can also choose to take only the AS to gain a qualification.
    How many exams are there for WJEC AS English Literature?
    There are two written exams for WJEC AS English Literature. Paper 1 focuses on 'Poetry and Drama' and lasts 2 hours, while Paper 2 focuses on 'Prose' and also lasts 2 hours. Each paper is worth 50% of your final AS grade, and there is no coursework component.
    What kind of texts will I study for WJEC AS English Literature?
    You will study a range of texts across poetry, drama, and prose. For example, you might study a poetry collection by a poet such as Philip Larkin, a Shakespeare play like 'Othello', and two prose texts, which could include a novel by Mary Shelley and a modern novel like 'The Great Gatsby'. The specific texts are chosen by your school or college from the WJEC set text list, so you may have some variety.
    Is there any coursework in WJEC AS English Literature?
    No, there is no coursework component in the WJEC AS-Level English Literature qualification. Your final grade is determined entirely by your performance in the two written examinations. This means that your revision and exam technique are crucial to success.
    How can I prepare for the WJEC AS English Literature exams?
    To prepare effectively, you should read your set texts multiple times, annotate them for key themes, language, and structure, and make notes on context and critical interpretations. Practice writing timed essays under exam conditions, and familiarise yourself with the exam format and mark schemes. Additionally, consider creating revision guides or flashcards for key quotes and concepts, and discuss your ideas with peers or teachers to deepen your understanding.
    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

    WJEC
    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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