English Language

Exam Board: AQA

​A-level English Language offers opportunities for students to develop their subject expertise by engaging creatively and critically with a wide range of texts and discourses. Students will create texts and reflect critically on their own processes of production, while analysing the texts produced by others. The course explores the study of English language both as a medium of communication and as a topic in its own right, with an emphasis on the ability of students to pursue lines of enquiry, 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 to the scope of this course.

Assessment

80% examination / 20% coursework

There are two exams plus a written language investigation (2,000 words excluding data) and a piece of original writing and commentary (1,500 words total)

Requirements

Sixth Form entry requirements.

Where can it lead?

Many students go on to study English at university, either combined with other subjects such as history or philosophy, or other literature based options such as American studies. Careers in English are varied and this A Level provides a strong foundation for a multitude of vocations.