English Language A-Level

The full A Level course contains 2 examination units and 1 coursework unit.

Students are encouraged to explore how language is used in a range of contexts for different purposes and different audiences.

They will reflect upon the influences affecting their own language use, as well as studying how language is adapted depending on social groupings, gender influences, regional variations and occupation. They will also explore how children acquire and develop language, while studying how language has changed over time.

For the coursework assignment students will be encouraged to investigate an aspect of language that is particularly pertinent to them, linked to a specific interest or field of study. They will also create a text for a specific audience and purpose, creating a commentary that explains in detail the creative and linguistic processes that have been applied.

Units

The A Level units comprise:

  • Unit 1: Language, the individual and society (40%) - 2 hours 30 minutes.

  • Unit 2: Language diversity and change (40%) - 2 hours 30 minutes.

  • Unit 3: Non-exam assessment (20%). A coursework unit for which students will investigate an area of language study of particular interest to them. They will also create a piece of original writing and related commentary linked to the power of persuasion, storytelling or information.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 4-9, including maths and grade 6 or above in English Language.

Exam Board

AQA - Click here to visit the course page on the AQA website.

Contact

Ms J Constantine - Curriculum Leader: English / Mr J Bulpett - i/c of KS5 English

Transition to KS5

All Year 11 students will be automatically added to our ‘Transition to KS5’ team once their GCSEs are completed. Students can check out the transition materials for as many of our subjects as they like.