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English Language (A Level)
Course Specification |
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Subject Specific Entry Requirements |
Grade 5 in English Language. In addition to the general entrance requirements. |
Costs Associated with this Course |
Students are not required to purchase textbooks but students could benefit from purchasing revision guides. |
Are you…
- keen to become a skilled communicator who can adapt your language according to the situation you are in?
- curious about how we learn language and use it differently depending on who we are?
- interested in reading a variety of texts?
- interested in debating issues that arise from how language is used in society?
How will you be assessed?
English Language qualifications are linear. This means that you will sit two AS exams at the end of your AS course in Year 12 and if you decide to continue with language in Year 13, you will complete A-level exams at the end of Year 13. There are two A-level exams worth 40% each and you will be required to submit two pieces of coursework that account for 20% of your grade.
The variety of assessment styles used, such as data analysis, discursive essays, directed writing, original writing and research-based investigative writing, allows you to develop a wide range of skills. These include critical reading, textual analysis, evaluation, the ability to develop and sustain arguments and a number of different writing skills which are invaluable for both further study and future employment.
What will I study?
Through applying linguistic frameworks and terminology to texts, you will be introduced to the ways in which English is used by individuals. You will learn how children acquire language and develop into skilled adult communicators who can adapt their speech and writing according to audience, purpose, genre, mode and representation. You will focus on how language varies in its wider social and geographical contexts, considering how factors such as region, gender, class and occupation affect the way in which we converse. You will explore how and why language develops over time, and will study social attitudes to, and debates about, language diversity and change. Using the knowledge and skills you have developed, you will then independently research an area of the subject that particularly interests you, and will also develop and reflect upon your own writing expertise, by completing an academic investigation and a piece of original writing with an accompanying commentary.
How will this course support my future plans?
One of the strengths of English Language is that it is relevant for a wide variety of careers and university courses. The analytical skills gained are useful for areas such as law or history, while the creative side of the course lends itself to journalism or advertising. More obviously, students are given a significant start towards studying English or Linguistics at university.
Student thoughts:
"Taking English Language at A Level has ignited my passion for communicating with multiple audiences via a variety of text styles."
"English Language helps broaden your creativity whilst developing a great understanding of the written word."
"English Language has allowed me to broaden my knowledge of all methods of communicating; I have thoroughly enjoyed this course."
"The teaching is inclusive but encourages independence, allowing you to fully develop the skills needed to succeed."
For more information on the course specifications click the link below:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/as-and-a-level/english-language-7701-7702
