Key Stage 5

Qualification

AQA - GCE A Level and GCE AS level

The course offers the opportunity for wide-ranging and in-depth study of the English Language in written and spoken forms. You will be able to explore how language is acquired, how it changes and how it is used. This involves not only looking at language used in the past and present, but also reading about the forms of language, the relationship between language and society and the history of English.

You will be analysing written forms, ranging from classical works of literature to magazines and spoken forms, including 'standard' English, dialect and popular music.

As well as studying a variety of written texts you will have the opportunity to produce your own original writing.

Course Length

Two years full 'A' level. One year 'AS' level

Entry Requirements

A higher grade pass in GCSE English Language is normally required, C is the minimum grade. A good pass for Literature is also an advantage

Course Delivery

Much of the course will be based on individual and group investigations of language. Group discussion will play a large part but you will also be expected to listen to, record and transcribe examples of spoken English. You will be expected to read books on the structures of English, its history and development, as well as current newspapers and magazines. You will (under guidance) have to carry out your own projects on the study of language.

Assessment Method

All courses will be assessed in modules. Three modules successfully passed represent 'AS' level and a further three ('A2') represent the full 'A' level. Modules can be assessed in January and June of Year 12 and Year 13.

Progression from the course

As the course is essentially to do with communications, it naturally leads on to areas such as Law and Publishing where skill and precision in the use of language are essential. Management, Commerce, Banking, The Civil Service and indeed most areas of industry need personnel who can read, assimilate, assess and make decisions based on information given.

Skill in communication is essential in Education at primary, secondary and higher levels. English is often seen as a 'main' subject but can also be used to support a wide variety of other areas of study at A level.