A-Level English Language

To apply for this course please scroll to the link under 'Additional Information'

The main focus behind the study of English Language is communication. Students are encouraged to explore how and why we communicate in the world in which we live, and how to express these ideas using their own successful communication skills. The asking of thought-provoking and polemical questions allows students to assess different arguments and to learn the value of their own thinking. Debate is crucial and encourages students to think outside of their own personal circumstances, developing their sense of empathy. Our English Language curriculum has been designed to enable students to understand the relationship between language and society, with a focus on honing their skills to be fully functioning members within that society.

Through the analysis of a range of texts, data and theories, you will study: How language is used to create meanings and representations Language diversity, including an exploration of gender, region, ethnicity and occupation Language change over time Language discourses Child language development The course is assessed through the combination of two exam papers and coursework. The coursework requires you to write a 750 word creative text with an accompanying 750 word analytical commentary, as well as a 2000 word investigation in which you explore a language issue of your choosing. This is worth 20% of the qualification.