Year 12

Building Foundations in Literature and Language

The Year 12 course begins with preparation for Paper 1, focusing on Telling Stories: Remembered Places. Students develop the ability to apply concepts and methods from integrated linguistic and literary study, using appropriate terminology and coherent written expression (AO1). They also explore the significance and influence of contexts in which texts are produced and received (AO3). Progression is made from teacher-guided anthology comparisons to independent analysis, supported by fortnightly assessments under exam conditions, with teacher feedback and departmental marking sheets linked to GCE standards. Home learning consolidates classwork through revision of key themes, characters, contextual research, and exam-style responses.

Students then expand their analytical skills through Imagined Worlds and Poetic Voices, enabling them to produce full comparative analyses of anthology texts with minimal intervention. They later begin work on their Non-Examined Assessment (NEA), Making Connections, emphasising AO1 and AO2. Alongside this, they study The Handmaid’s Tale and the poetry of Carol Ann Duffy, focusing on analysis of character, theme, and poetic voice. Independent learning is encouraged through exam question practice and research activities.

By the latter part of the year, students are expected to complete all sections of Paper 1 independently and sit mock examinations. The NEA becomes the central focus, with students researching themes, analysing both fiction and non-fiction texts, and producing comparative essays. This culminates in submission of the final NEA draft, supported by teacher-student discussions, critical reading recommendations, and tailored guidance on question choices. The year emphasises increasing independence, with students moving from guided study to autonomous analytical work.