New GCEs for 2008



GCE English Literature A (2740)

AS and A Level

Introducing AQA's new specification for English Literature A for AS and A Level. This new specification has been designed to:

  • maintain continuity with the previous specification whilst delivering as much choice as possible for teachers and candidates
  • encourage candidates to develop as informed, independent readers and critics of literary texts
  • comply with the subject criteria and provide teachers with a coherent collection of texts to select from.

The following information and specification outline will enable both practising Teachers and Subject Heads to be better informed and supported in the teaching of this subject, particularly if attending one of AQA's Teacher Support meetings.


Classification Codes

Every specification is assigned a national classification code indicating the subject area to which it belongs. The classification code for this specification is 5110.

Centres should be aware that candidates who enter for more than one GCE AS/A level qualification with the same classification code will have only one grade (the highest) counted for the purpose of the School and College Performance Tables.

Centres may wish to advise candidates that, if they take two specifications with the same classification code, universities and employers are very likely to take the view that they have achieved only one of the two GCE AS/A levels. The same view may be taken if candidates take two GCE AS/A level specifications that have different classification codes but have significant overlap of content. Candidates who have any doubts about their subject combinations should check with the university to which they wish to progress or company they wish to join, before embarking on their programmes.

Assessment Objectives

AO1 - Articulate creative, informed and relevant responses to literary texts, using appropriate terminology and concepts, and coherent, accurate written expression

AO2 - Demonstrate detailed critical understanding in analysing the ways in which structure, form and language shape meanings in literary texts

AO3 - Explore connections and comparisons between different literary texts, informed by interpretations of other readers

AO4 - Demonstrate understanding of the significance and influence of the contexts in which literary texts are written and received.





Key documents


Launch Meetings

Further information

Quick links

External links