Overview
The English Language A level course requires students to: read critically, analyse data, write discursive essays, produce original, directed and research-based investigative writing and develop a wide range of skills.
Board: AQA
explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others' interpretations of them; and undertake independent and sustained studies to deepen their appreciation and understanding of English literature, including its changing traditions.
Course Structure
Teaching begins in September (January for 18 month courses). In the first year you will cover the following topics:
- Textual variations and representations
- Methods of language analysis
The second year then builds on this foundation for the completion of the full A level. In the second year you will focus on the following topics:
- Textual variations and representations
- Children's language development
- Language diversity and change
- Language discourses
- Writing skills
- Language investigation
- Original Writing
English Language One-Year A level
The board, format and content are the same as the two-year programme, but the course is covered in the space of one year.
Programme Requirements
Students are normally required to have at least grade 5 in English Language and English Literature or equivalent.
Related Further Study and Careers
English Language opens up a wide range of university and career options. Seen as a facilitating subject by universities, this discipline develops the knowledge, skills and understanding that will be required for many undergraduate programmes including English and Communication studies. In addition, it prepares students well for many other essay-based degree courses. The analytical and literary skills acquired are attractive to employers in a wide range of fields.
