Literature in English (H3)

This course is designed for students with exceptional ability and a deep interest in Literature, who are willing to study the subject with greater depth and specialization.

Aims

The course aims to develop the following in students:

• Detailed knowledge and understanding of a well-defined literary subject.
• Understanding of different methods of literary analysis.
• Confidence in forming independent judgments.
• Skills in literary research.
• Skills in the formal academic presentation of a wide range of information and complex ideas.

Assessment Objectives

Candidates will demonstrate the following abilities in their essay and accompanying evaluative commentary:

• Analyze and evaluate literary texts within the context of literary history, movements, and/or theory; evaluate and compare different critical views.
• Construct a well-founded argument in support of an independent critical judgment.
• Carry out independent research involving the selection and citation of a range of appropriate secondary sources.
• Discuss the process of research and analysis in an evaluative commentary.

Assessment Structure

Candidates submit a research essay of 3000-3500 words and an evaluative commentary of 800-1200 words.

Research Essay

• Based on at least 3 primary texts originally written in English, with references to other relevant texts as appropriate.
• Texts studied for H1 and H2 Literature in English are not permitted.
• For poetry, a text should be a published selection or a similarly substantial selection made by the candidate.
• Headings, footnotes, and appendices do not count towards the word limit.
• Typewritten on A4 paper, double-spaced, Arial font, size 12.
• Includes a complete bibliography and may include appendices with supplementary materials.

Research Topic Selection

The process begins with candidates proposing several potential research areas. The Coursework Supervisor helps refine and select a viable topic based on an initial literature review, ensuring sufficient primary and secondary sources.

Guidelines for the Research Essay

• The essay should be a rigorous academic exercise.
• The topic should allow for breadth and depth of study and literary analysis.
• It should extend beyond the H2 syllabus; H2 texts cannot be the main focus.
• A minimum of 3 primary sources and appropriate secondary sources are required.

Evaluative Commentary

The commentary reflects on the research and writing process, including:

• Original aims and their development.
• Methodology.
• Primary and secondary sources used.
• Use of sources in developing arguments.
• Influence of differing critical views.
• Drafting process.
• Development of the investigation and alternative approaches.
• How final conclusions were reached.

Proposal Process

• A soft copy of the Research Essay Proposal Form is submitted to SEAB in Term 1 of the second year.
• The proposal includes the research topic, working title, a summary of aims and scope, and details of the texts.
• The hard copy is retained by the school and submitted with the completed essay.
• Proposals are sent electronically to Cambridge for approval.
• Feedback is provided if revisions are needed.

Guidance and Supervision

The Coursework Supervisor provides guidance at the proposal stage, during writing (up to 3 conferences), and on research ethics, skills, and resources. The responsible use of AI is permitted, but generated content must be acknowledged.

External Sources and Plagiarism

Candidates may seek advice from external experts but must not receive help with writing. All sources, including AI-generated content, must be acknowledged. Coursework Supervisors must verify the authenticity of the work and report any suspected plagiarism.