English Language

English Language Summary

Our A-level English Language course offers students opportunities to develop their subject expertise by engaging creatively and critically with a wide range of texts and discourses. As a result of this, students also develop their own craft to become sophisticated writers. Students create texts and reflect critically on their own processes of production, as well as analysing the texts produced by others.  

The specification explores the study of English language both as a medium of communication and as a topic in its own right. Students are encouraged to debate different views and work independently to research aspects of language in use. Language is seen as a creative tool for expression and social connection, as well as for individual cognition. The study of language as a symbolic system used to assert power in society is also fundamental within the scope of this specification. 

Entry Requirements

• 5 x grade 5 or above (including GCSE Maths and English Language)

Course Duration

2 years full-time

Specification

AQA

How you will study

The variety of assessment styles used, such as data analysis, discursive essays, directed writing, original writing and research-based investigative writing, allows students to develop a wide range of skills. These include critical reading, data 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. 

Component breakdown

Paper 1  
2 hours, 30 minutes 
Section A: Meanings and Representations – how do linguistic frameworks these in our world? Section B: Child Language Acquisition – how do children learn to speak and write? 

Paper 2 
2 hours, 30 minutes 
Section A: Language Diversity: 
– Language and Gender 
– Language and Region 
– Language and Occupation  
– Language and Social Class 
Section B: Language Change  

Coursework  
Original Writing. 
Investigation: Students critically explore a specific area of the English Language that interests them.  

Related courses