IGCSE | English
Literature

English Literature at Leighton Park

Exam Board: Edexcel
Syllabus Code: 4ET1

The English Literature IGCSE involves the study of a range of engaging and popular texts, that remain both challenging and accessible for all learners. The texts include poetry, prose and drama and reflect the work of a diverse range of writers and poets. We follow the coursework and examination option, ensuring that students develop the ability to read and respond to a wide range of literary texts from around the world, develop an appreciation of the ways in which writers use literary techniques, explore the writer’s use of language to create effects and, most importantly, allow students to find enjoyment in reading literature.

Paper 1: Poetry & Modern Prose – 2 hour examination – 60% weighting

Content: Section 1
Students answer one essay question on an unseen modern poem then answer a comparative question based on work from a pre-studied anthology of poetry.

Content: Section 2
Students answer one essay question on a pre-studied prose text.

Criteria assessed
Understanding and evaluation of the ideas and styles of literary texts. Ability to compose fluent, analytical responses to questions on passages and whole texts.

Coursework: Modern Drama & Literary Heritage – 2 pieces of coursework – 40% weighting

Content: Section 1
Students answer one essay question (negotiated with teacher) on a studied Modern Drama text.

Content: Section 2
Students answer one essay question (negotiated with teacher) on a studied Literary Heritage text.

Criteria assessed
Understanding and evaluation of the ideas and styles of a range of texts. Ability to compose fluent, analytical responses to questions.

The texts for study are currently:

Literary Heritage

One heritage text from the list below:

• Romeo & Juliet – William Shakespeare
• Macbeth – William Shakespeare

Modern Prose

One prose text from the list below:

• Of Mice & Men – John Steinbeck
• To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee
• Things Fall Apart – Chinua Achebe
• The Whale Rider – Witi Ihimaera
• The Joy Luck Club – Amy Tan

Modern Drama

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time – Adapted for the stage by Simon Stephens

Poetry

A range of poems drawn from the published Edexcel anthology.

If you have any queries about this course, please contact Head of Department: Jessica Boswell