OCR A Level English Language & Literature specification (H474)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR A Level English Language & Literature exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official OCR A Level English Language & Literature specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official OCR A Level English Language & Literature (H474) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
This A Level English Language & Literature (EMC) qualification from OCR enables learners to explore the richness of language and literature through integrated linguistic and literary analysis. Developed in collaboration with the English and Media Centre, it fosters close reading, original writing, and independent study. Students analyse fiction, non-fiction, spoken texts and drama, while also producing creative and critical work. The course encourages interpretation, stylistic awareness and contextual understanding, supporting progression into higher education and careers in communication, publishing, and cultural industries:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
Component 01: Exploring non-fiction and spoken texts
- Study of OCR (EMC) anthology of 20 spoken and written texts from various periods and contexts
- Comparative analysis of one anthology text and one unseen text
- Focus on representation, mode, audience, purpose, and linguistic methods including discourse, pragmatics, phonology
Component 02: The language of poetry and plays
- Section A: One poetry collection from six options (e.g. Duffy, Blake, Dickinson) – analyse form, structure, foregrounding and literary context
- Section B: One play from six options (e.g. Othello, Tribes, Jerusalem) – stylistic and dramatic analysis, exploring character, staging, and themes
Component 03: Reading as a writer, writing as a reader
- Section A: Narrative study of one prose text (e.g. The Great Gatsby, Jane Eyre) – explore narrative voice, structure, and genre
- Section B: Original creative narrative writing (500 words) and commentary (250 words), reflecting narrative techniques
Component 04: Independent study – analysing and producing texts
- Task 1: Analytical comparative essay (1500–2000 words) on one prescribed non-fiction text (e.g. Capote, Bryson, Winterson) and one free choice text (must include at least one post-2000)
- Task 2: Original non-fiction writing (1000–1200 words) in a chosen genre, with 150-word introduction
- Emphasises personal interest, independent research, and synoptic application of knowledge:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Assessment structure
Component 01: Exploring non-fiction and spoken texts
- Written exam: 1 hour
- 32 marks; 16% of A Level
- Closed text
- Comparative question on anthology and unseen text
Component 02: The language of poetry and plays
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 64 marks; 32% of A Level
- Closed text
- Section A: poetry analysis and comparison
- Section B: drama analysis with extract
Component 03: Reading as a writer, writing as a reader
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 64 marks; 32% of A Level
- Open text
- Section A: essay on narrative technique
- Section B: creative narrative and commentary
Component 04: Independent study – analysing and producing texts
- Non-exam assessment
- 40 marks; 20% of A Level
- Task 1: 1500–2000 word comparative essay
- Task 2: 1000–1200 word original writing with 150-word introduction
- At least one text must be post-2000 and one must be from OCR's prescribed list:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR A Level English Language & Literature isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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