FdA English with Creative Writing

Year 1

Core modules

• Introduction to English and Creative Practice (STRO1201)

  This module introduces three strands of the course: the study of English literature, language and the production of creative writing. It provides an overview of the historic development of English language and literature and introduces the conventions of academic writing, the processes of critical analysis and the scope of creative writing. It introduces study skills, creative workshopping and research methodologies.

• English in the Age of Renaissance (STRO1204)

  This module will explore English Renaissance poetry and drama. It will promote awareness of contextual issues. Students will reflect critically on key texts, with particular consideration of their historical and literary context. It will include study of the language and concepts of the King James Bible and its impact on the development of English language and literature.

• Vocational English (STRO1206)

  This module will include work related learning to extend students appreciation of the vocational aspects of English and Creative Writing. Settings could include local theatres, literary heritage sites, publishers, literary festivals, libraries, bookshops. Students will produce a practitioner profile, a portfolio of work and a journal archive (either a blog or a physical record) reflecting on their experiences.

• The Origins of Written English  (STRO1207)

  This module explores the development of English literature and language.  It will introduce Old English and Medieval texts including Anglo-Saxon poetry in translation; writers such as Chaucer and Malory and the local oral tradition of Somerset legends.  Students will apply skills of critical analysis and demonstrate their understanding of poetic form in creative responses and develop their research skills. 

• Classical Literature   (STRO1208)

  This module will provide students with knowledge and understanding of classical literature and philosophy. It will explore aspects of Ancient Greek and Roman poetry, drama and aesthetic philosophy. Students will undertake independent research, engage critically and creatively with classical texts. 

• Empire and Exploration (STRO1209)

  This module will explore the development of English literature and language in the 17th and early 18th century, including awareness of the global perspective of English writers of the time. It will introduce the emerging novel and journal forms. It will include study of the changing English language as a result of empire building and the new consciousness surrounding the English language and English identity.     

Final year

Core modules

• The Development of the Novel (STRO2201)

  This module will promote understanding of the development of narrative fiction and literary criticism in the 18th century, touching on the influence of prescriptivism during this period. It will look at the genesis of the bildungsroman, epistolary and experimental forms of narrative.

• Women's Voices (STRO2203)

  This module will study explore the development of writing by women in English. Students will engage in close study of key texts and undertake wider exploration of issues of gender and language with a focus on, but not restricted to, the Victorian era.

• Children's Literature (STRO2204)

  This creative module will provide an opportunity for students to produce original work for children or young adults, with a choice between fictional and non-fictional output. It will provide an overview of the development of children's literature; consider what constitutes children's literature and the function of children's literature as well as the language and structure of children's literature.

• Modern Global Englishes (STRO2205)

  This module will promote awareness of English as a global language and the proliferation of different Englishes. It will encourage wide reading of English literatures from across the world and reflections on what is truly meant by the label of English Literatures. Students will study theories of Post-colonialism and apply them to a range of texts. It will also consider the linguistic variations in English worldwide.

• Revolution and Romanticism  (STRO2207)

  This module will explore the development of Romanticism, considering the impact of social change on English Literature.  A focus of the module will be the inspiration of the Somerset land and seascapes, and students will be creatively encouraged to experiment with speech writing.  

• Literature in a Digital Age  (STRO2208)

  This module will explore the impact of film, television, radio and the internet on English language and literature.  Students will critically analyse the language of a range of traditional and contemporary media and engage in writing creatively in a current digital form.