English Lit A Level
Home/Component 3: Unseen Texts
20% of A Level

Component 3: Unseen Texts

Analysis of previously unseen prose and poetry extracts. Tests your ability to analyse unfamiliar texts.

2 hours
Unseen texts
2 Sections
Section A
Unseen Prose
Analyse an extract from prose fiction written between 1880-1910 OR 1918-1939.

You will be given an unseen prose extract and asked to analyse how the writer creates meaning through language, form and structure.

40 marks | Approximately 60 minutes

Key Skills:

  • - Close reading and annotation
  • - Understanding prose techniques
  • - Contextual awareness of period
  • - Analytical essay writing
Section B
Unseen Poetry
Analyse an unseen poem from any period.

You will be given an unseen poem and asked to analyse how the poet creates meaning through poetic methods.

40 marks | Approximately 60 minutes

Key Skills:

  • - Identifying poetic forms and structures
  • - Analysing imagery and language
  • - Understanding rhythm and metre
  • - Exploring tone and voice

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Detailed guides for approaching unseen prose and poetry will be added here, including practice passages and worked examples.

Assessment Objectives for Component 3

AO1 (10 marks per section)

Articulate informed, personal and creative responses to literary texts, using associated concepts and terminology, and coherent, accurate written expression.

AO2 (30 marks per section)

Analyse ways in which meanings are shaped in literary texts.