English teaching looking forwards

A Level English reforms

At last, all the A Level English exam boards have had each of their proposed specifications accredited. This means that, from September 2015 there are a raft of new texts and new themes around which A Level Literature study will be focused.

Yes … more planning!

Unfortunately, the introduction of different texts and the reorganisation of how they will be taught means rather a lot of work for already busy A Level English teachers. Whilst some of the new specifications have been available in their approved form since September 2014, others only came out in December, which means some rather speedy catching up!

But help is at hand

We are really pleased that Crossref-it.info resources already cover many areas suggested within the new syllabuses.

Themes linking texts

• For those considering the AQA Lit A and Edexcel Lit. exams, which feature an exploration of crime, its detection and punishment, why not have a look at the thematic ‘Only Connect’ approach on Villainy and vengeance?
• Alternatively, there is helpful ‘Only Connect’ material on Love, lust and marriage if you are considering the Edexcel Lit. & Lang., WJEC Lit. & Lang. or AQA Lit. A syllabus themes on Love, romance and loss
• ‘Only Connect’ material on Women finding a voice will also be relevant if you are planning to teach Edexcel Lit., AQA Lit A. or OCR Lit. about representations of women within literature and society. You could also explore the material here for some starting points: Women and literature

Crossref-it.info is continuing to develop resources and if you have any ideas for literary themes which you would like to see covered, please get in touch at info@crossref-it.info.

Meanwhile, look out for our next blog about which texts we have guides on to help you and your students to exam success with the new 2015 specifications.

Enjoy the term!