A-Level English Language & Literature

Why study this course?

What skills does it develop?

Analytical thinking, understanding the wider world, application of linguistic and literary frameworks.

The study skills used in this subject can be applied to any professional job.

What level of prior knowledge, attainment and skills are required?

What are the entry requirements?

Grade 6 in GCSE English Language and English Literature. It can be combined with any subject.

Who would it suit?

Students who enjoy reading a wide range of texts written for a range of purposes, linguistic and literary analysis, creative writing.

What does the course cover and how is it structured?

Unit 1 - Voices in Speech and Writing

Work with an anthology of non-fiction writing provided by the Board. Study of a play, Translations, by Brian Friel. 40%

Unit 2 - Unseen textual analysis

Comparative study of Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Thomas Hardy and Selected Poems, Sylvia Plath. 40%

Unit 3 - Investigating texts

Creative writing coursework. Two pieces of original writing based on stimulus texts plus one commentary. 20%

How is the course assessed?

Two Examinations of 2 hours 30 minutes each. 

One non-examined assessment/NEA (creative writing and commentary).

The examinations are worth 40% each and the NEA is worth 20%.

How can families help?

What family trips might be useful?

Theatre performances, cinema performances of stage plays, art galleries, public lectures.

What activities might parents encourage?

Reading a range of texts and contextual materials, creative writing opportunities, theatre visits, attendance at study days suggested by school.