English Language
English Language AQA A-Level
Students will study for two examination papers and a ‘non-examination assessment’ piece. The first paper, titled ‘Language, the Individual and Society’ will require them to study textual variations and representations, including how a text communicates its meaning through language, structure, and for a variety of audiences. The second part of the paper explores children’s language development, and how children develop their spoken and written communication. Underpinning the unit are methods of language analysis, which are integrated throughout the unit.
The second examination paper is titled ‘Language Diversity and Change’. Students will study texts from a range of time periods and places to consider how language changes over time, and how language varies and develops.
The final unit is a non-examined assessment, which allows students to pursue their individual interests. Students conduct their own investigation into an aspect of language use, where examples include studying the language of the media, gendered language, regional dialects or the language of different occupations of hobbies. Students will also complete a piece of original writing which they will then analyse and comment on, illuminating stylistic and linguistic decisions they have taken in their piece.
Teaching and Learning
This course should appeal to students who enjoy reading, writing, analysing and discussing. Students will be expected to research, read and write independently and then to share their skills and knowledge in class. Lessons are interestingly varied and the course will include:
• Lecture/tutorial type lessons and seminar-style lessons (teacher and student led)
• Small group work/pair work/individual study
• Making wall displays
• School-based conferences
• Theatre trips and revision conference trips
At home or during independent study, students will complete weekly reading, writing, research and presentation tasks and homework is set and recorded on a weekly basis. Personal/independent learning skills are taught together with the staged/systematic preparation of all examined components. “Teach and test” approaches plus clear, regular feedback enables students to constantly improve on their levels of knowledge and skill.
Assessment
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Entry Requirements
Please refer to The John of Gaunt Sixth Form entry requirements.
Why Study English Language?
- It’s a really enjoyable course, covering a wide range of texts, theories and modes of communication
- It fits in well with other KS5 subjects, such as Psychology, Sociology, History, Modern Languages, Child Development, and even the Sciences and Mathematics.
- The skills which you will acquire will aid your study of other subjects – it could be an integral part of your A Level package.
- You will become an informed reader, a skilled writer and gain confidence in written arguments – in short, a formidable communicator.
- You will develop many useful transferable skills, such as developing and plotting arguments, communication strategies for reaching audiences and analysing and responding critically to the work of others.
Links to Higher Education
All English A Levels have a grounding in sound academic study and, as such, they are valued by all universities and colleges.
• There are many combined courses which include English
• English Language is a good basis for studying Journalism, Media, Film, Creative Writing, Advertising, PR or Communication or Political Studies at university
Links to Careers
Just as universities appreciate the value of an English A-Level, so do employers. Completing the course will help you to:
• Develop your ability to work independently
• Research, work and present ideas in teams
• Interact and communicate effectively
• Read, interpret and write clearly and analytically
Useful Websites
