We worked with teachers, subject expert panels and universities around the world to update our Cambridge International AS & A Level English subject group as part of our on-going review process. Following the review, we have made some changes to Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English for examination in 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Many teachers told us that they offer more than one English subject from this group, so we have made some changes so that the syllabuses work together regardless of whether a student is studying one or more subject from this group. To make it clearer for teachers, we have separated this syllabus (Cambridge International AS and A Level English – Literature 9695) from our other Cambridge International AS & A Level English syllabuses.
How has the syllabus changed?
Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English is available for examination in 2021, 2022 and 2023.
- We have updated the aims in the syllabus, but the emphasis remains the same - to encourage learners to enjoy reading a wide range of international texts and to develop their skills in Literature.
- We have revised the key concepts and they are now:
- Language
- Form
- Structure
- Genre
- Context
- Style
- Interpretation.
- We have updated the list of set texts in the 'Subject content' section of the syllabus.
- A list of command words has been added to the syllabus to help teaching and learning and exam preparation.
How has the assessment changed?
- We have removed optional routes through the syllabus. There are now compulsory examination components: Paper 1 and Paper 2 at AS Level, with the addition of Paper 3 and Paper 4 at A Level.
- Paper 2: The assessment of an Unseen text has been introduced to the AS level and this provides good progression from Cambridge IGCSE.
- Coursework has been removed from the syllabus. All components are now externally assessed.
- All learners will study all three forms: poetry, prose and drama at both AS and A Level. This allows students to gain a good knowledge and understanding of Literature in all forms.
- The question paper structure has changed, as have the paper titles due to the changes made to the assessment model. However, the style of questions and presentation of the questions remains consistent with the current syllabus.
- The rubrics in all of the question papers have changed. Please see the specimen papers for further information.
- The levels-based marking criteria have been updated to maintain validity and reliability of assessment.
When do these changes take place?
The updated syllabus is for examination in June and November 2021, 2022 and 2023. It is also available in March 2021, 2022 and 2023 (India only). Please see the 2021-2023 syllabus above for full details.
Coming soon
We are developing a wide range of support to help you plan and teach the 2021-2023 syllabus.
Support
Look out for a comprehensive range of materials to help you teach the updated syllabus including a scheme of work, Example candidate responses, Learner and Teacher Guides as well as specimen paper answers. These resources will be available from April 2019 onwards (before first teaching) through our School Support Hub.
Endorsed resources
View the latest resources that are being developed for the Cambridge International AS & A Level English Literature syllabus (9695).
Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English (Collins)
Introduce key concepts and skills for advanced level literary study and focus on developing effective writing from the start. Give students a toolkit for responding to unseen texts and exploring the set texts in depth.
Read more on the Collins website
Cambridge International AS & A Level Literature in English (Cambridge University Press)
Through exploring wide ranging texts, students will find they are building essential skills – such as the ability to write clearly and effectively, construct an argument, manage information and analyse complex pieces.
Read more on the Cambridge University Press website