GCSE English Literature (2017)
Following the cancellation of examinations, below you will find information on alternative awarding arrangements for Summer 2021. View Specification and Summer 2021 Subject Guidance. In the meantime, should you have any queries, please email CCEA Helpline [email protected]
The CCEA GCSE English Literature specification encourages students to be enthusiastic, independent, imaginative, critical and analytical readers. It aims to increase their enjoyment of reading, helping to nurture a lifelong love of literature.
The specification deepens students’ knowledge and understanding of a range of poetry, prose and drama, including texts by local and modern writers. Students explore the impact of language, structure and form in the texts. Connecting the texts’ ideas, themes and issues is another key focus.
Students also learn how to explain settings, characters and themes creatively through social, cultural and historical contexts. They develop their ability to research, plan and prepare their responses using their own ideas and interests, as well as critical reading.
This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Language and Literacy Area of Learning.
This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment before the end of the course.
The specification has three units:
- Unit 1: The Study of Prose
- Unit 2: The Study of Drama and Poetry
- Unit 3: The Study of Shakespeare.
Current Specification
Skills developed through our GCSE English Literature
This specification supports the Northern Ireland Curriculum at Key Stage 4 and gives students further opportunities to achieve their potential and develop skills for life. These skills include reading and evaluating the written word across various genres, conveying personal interpretations through cogent organisation of ideas and well-constructed arguments. Students also develop skills that will help them to manage information effectively, work independently and work with others.
This qualification offers lots of opportunities to develop transferable skills, such as generating creative, individual responses to problems and writing accurately and clearly. It provides a sound basis for progression to further study, higher education or employment in a range of areas.
For more information on this specification contact:
Popular Learning Resources
Treoir Ghasta ar an Churaclam do Thuismitheoirí
Cur síos ar a mbeadh súil leis agus do pháiste ag tosú ar an bhunscoil agus/nó ar an iar-bhunscoil.
Supporting the Curriculum and Assessment in 2020/21
The curriculum offers flexibility and specifies a minimum entitlement for all pupils. Schools have considerable scope to tailor this entitlement and
Replacement certificates
Lost your CCEA exam certificates? Information and help with replacement certificates, certified statement of results and/or updating your details.
-
Quick Guides to the Curriculum for Parents
What to expect when your child starts primary and/or post-primary school. Download our resource(s).
Work with us
There are currently no positions related to this qualification with CCEA. To see all available positions with CCEA visit our jobs section.