English Literature O'level

The study area SEC English Literature is informed by the National Curriculum Framework (NCF). GSCE English Literature is informed by Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).

English Literature demands a sensitivity to language and as such, learners need to exploit the skills they acquire in their English language lessons in order to learn about literary genre and devices and improve their ability to write about literary texts. In fact, literature is considered an integral part of English at all levels, where learners are exposed to regular opportunities to focus and engage with a range of literary texts. A multimodal approach is encouraged through which all learners would have the possibility to practise analytical, evaluative and creative skills. While students learn to understand English literature within time and space, they should also interact with texts on a personal and social level, thus enriching their reading experience.

Given that the Maltese context is a bilingual one where learners are exposed to English and have many opportunities for language use, engagement with the aesthetics of the language strengthens learners’ knowledge and appreciation of the language. As learners read, enjoy and interact with a poem, play or prose text, they are empowered from a young age to better understand themselves, society, culture and human nature. Indeed, the study of English literature helps candidates become better individuals and commendable members of the human community.

At the end of the programme, the student will be able to: 

• engage with and respond to a range of literary texts such as poetry, prose and drama written for a particular audience
• respond to a range of literary devices adopted in texts such as poetry, prose and drama and explain how they might be linked to theme, setting or character
• read literary texts such as poetry, prose and drama from the past and those which are more contemporary
• recommend a literary text such as poetry, prose and drama to others and give reasons for this
• respond to different aspects of set texts
• tackle unseen literary texts (poetry and prose) independently.
• compare and contrast literary texts or parts of texts taken from poetry, prose and drama
• use evidence from literary texts (poetry, prose and drama), such as close reference, paraphrase and commentary, to support one’s explanation/discussion and present these quotes using proper conventions
• interact with literary texts (poetry, prose and drama) read or listened to in a creative way
• interact with a Shakespearean text
• write well organised literature essays and/or speak in an organised manner about poetry, prose and drama, using the appropriate conventions
• write/speak accurately using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures for clarity, purpose and effect