KS5 COURSE OVERVIEW - ENGLISH LANGUAGE

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: MS A CUNNIFFE

Course Content and Assessment

AS Module 1 – Introduction to the study of language

Designed to lay the foundations for the study of English language at Advanced Level, this module builds on skills acquired during your study of GCSE English. You will look more closely at how and why writers and speakers make choices about the words, structures and sounds they use. Examination: 17½% of the total A Level Marks.

AS Module 2 – Language and Social Contexts

Focuses on the relationships between the language we use and the way we live our lives. Topics change each year but you can expect to study areas such as Accent and Dialect, Gender, Power, and Technology. Examination: 17½% of the total A Level marks.

AS Module 3 – Original Writing

A chance for budding writers to practise their skills. Aim for professional and publishable standards when you produce two pieces of writing for different audiences and purposes. Cast yourself in the role of music journalist, comedy scriptwriter, environmental campaigner, advice columnist or any other type of writer that appeals to you. You also get the opportunity to write a commentary that explains your writing decisions to the examiner. Coursework: 15% of the total A Level Marks.

A2 Module 4 - Investigating Language

Choose an area of language that interests you (which could be anything from gravestones to rap lyrics) and investigate it. Coursework: 15% of total A Level marks.

A2 Module 5 – Editorial Writing

Extend your writing skills and put them into practice under examination conditions. Learn how to turn source materials into something new and exciting. Examination: 15% of the total A Level marks.

A2 Module 6 – Language Development

Ever wonder how you went from babbling in your cot to being able to take part in discussion at Advanced Level? Have you considered why we have so many words that seemingly mean the same thing? These questions and others will be covered when you study Child Language Acquisition and Language Change. Examination: 20% of the total A Level marks.

Staff Soundbite: The fastest growing A Level subject. Valued by employers and universities.

Student Soundbite: Makes you look at everything you say, hear, read and write in a different way.

Higher Education and Careers

A good discipline to prepare you for a wide variety of occupations and further qualifications. Also specifically appropriate for occupations in media, theatre, journalism, librarianship and teaching.

Entry Requirements

At least a C at GCSE English Language or Literature.