English Language

What are the entry requirements?

5 GCSEs at A* – C with a minimum of a B in English Language.

Course Outline

AS:

Component 1: Language and the individual (50% of AS Level)

Component 2: Language varieties (50% of AS Level)

A2:

Component 1: Language, the individual and society (40% of A Level)

Component 2: Language diversity and change (40% of A Level)

Component 3: Language in action: Coursework (20% of A level)

How will I be assessed?

The new A-level is linear so assessment of each student’s knowledge and understanding of the whole course takes place at the end of two years of study.

As:

Component 1: Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes, 70 marks

Component 2: Written Exam: 1 hour 30 minutes, 70 marks

A2:

Component 1: Written exam: 2 hours , 100 marks

Component 2: Written Exam: 2 hours, 100 marks

Component 3: Non-exam assessment: A Language Investigation and a piece of original writing (3500 words), 100 marks

What will I study?

The courses are a natural progression from GCSE Language and encourage students to develop their interest in and appreciation of the many facets of the English language. They raise students’ awareness of the diversity of spoken and written texts and consider ways in which texts can be analysed and categorised. Additionally, the courses explore the differences in language use between the genders; the ways in which language is used to assert power and how technology affects language.   The ways in which children acquire language from birth to the age of 11 are studied as too are the historical changes in the English language over the past four centuries. Those taking the A level, also choose an area of language to research for their independent language investigation. This is an opportunity for students to develop their own areas of interest. There is a strong appeal for many in contemporary issues such as language use in Educating Essex or the assertion of power in The Apprentice.

Where can it lead me?

The specification lays an appropriate foundation for further study of English and related subjects in higher education e.g. journalism, law, teaching, management and many more. Equally, material studied would be useful for candidates intending to pursue any career requiring clarity of communication and interaction with members of the public. English Language is widely respected and is an effective complement to any combination of subjects.