A Level English Language

This course combines a critical and creative approach. You will analyse and produce texts, demonstrating understanding and skill in how the English language works across a variety of contexts. You will learn about how language works on many different levels. The course will involve studying how we communicate in written and spoken texts according to our social group, region, occupation, gender and ethnicity. You will also learn about how children learn to speak, read and write, and about how language has changed across time.

Themes that are covered are:

• Language, the Individual and Society
• Language Diversity and Change
• Coursework - Language in Action

A number of specifications will be changing and prospectus entries are based on information we have to date. This means that course content may be subject to change.

There are two exam units which are assessed at the end of the second year. You will also produce a coursework project worth 20% of the qualification.

Paper 1

Language , the individual and society (2 hours 30 minutes - 100 marks, 40%)

Paper 2

Language, diversity and change (2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks, 40%)

Coursework

Non-exam assessment: Language in action (3500 words in total, 100 marks, 20%)

5 GCSEs (including English and Maths) at grade 4 or above.

The study of English Language will equip you for a wide range of higher education courses. It is essential if you wish to study English Language or Linguistics at university, and also compliments most subjects including social science subjects such as psychology, sociology and law related courses.

Students who take English at A level are seen to be very employable due to their analytical and communication skills. Students often go on to pursue careers in areas such as journalism, law, publishing, marketing and education.