|
The English Literature Admissions Test (ELAT) is a written test based on six extracts from poems, novels and short stories. The task is to read all the extracts, select two or three, and then to compare and contrast them. The examiners are interested in your reaction to unfamiliar literary materials, and are particularly concerned with your ‘close’ reading skills: paying attention to language, imagery, allusion, syntax, and the form and structure of the passages. The ELAT is a closed-book test, so you are not allowed to bring your own books or dictionaries to the test session.
How long does it take? The time allowed is 90 minutes. This includes 30 minutes to read all the extracts.
How are the results reported? The ELAT is double-marked, each examiner awarding marks out of 30. The total mark, out of 60, is then banded. Those obtaining results in the top-band are invited to interview, as are (usually) those in the second-band. Results in the other two bands generally mean that candidates are not invited for interview, unless there are ‘compelling’ reasons to do so.
Who uses it? The ELAT is used by the University of Oxford for the selection of candidates for English Language & Literature, and English combined with Modern Languages or Classics.
How do I take it? The test is administered at test centres in schools and colleges.
How can I prepare?
- Basic preparation. There is background information and a sample paper on the ELAT website.
- Advanced preparation. The ELAT is like an additional short A-Level paper. As such the work you are currently doing as part of your A-Level course should prepare you for this test. Clearly you may find it beneficial to spend extra time developing your critical reading skills, getting to grips with methods of analysing texts, and specific literary terms (simile, metaphor, allusion, periphrasis etc).
|
|
