GCSE Literature Boost: Jekyll & Hyde : Using Critical Theory at GCSE

GCSE Literature Boost: Jekyll and Hyde uses academic criticism to help teach Stevenson’s novella with ambition and classroom clarity. It shows teachers how to use “theoretical lenses” as tools that help students move to confident, thesis-led interpretation. This is essential reading for all secondary English teachers.

GCSE Literature Boost: Jekyll and Hyde uses academic criticism and theory to help you teach Stevenson’s novella with intellectual ambition and classroom clarity. It shows teachers how to use accessible “theoretical lenses” such as ideas about power, gender, psychology, and context not as bolt-on jargon but as tools that help students move from technique-spotting to confident, thesis-led interpretation. Structured to support both planning and delivery, the book explains why theory matters at GCSE and offers a whistlestop tour of key critical approaches along with guidance on building theory coherently through a wider English curriculum. It then offers classroom-ready “big idea” essays and resources to adapt for lessons and departmental CPD. Features include:Case studies showing how English teachers have used academic theory in practical ways. Ideas for teaching linked to GCSE assessment objectives at the end of each chapter. Key points at the end of each chapter that highlight the key takeaways from that chapter. Real examples of student work which can be used as models and exemplars. This is essential reading for all secondary English teachers looking to create a climate of high expectations and improve their students’ knowledge and understanding of the big ideas in literature.