Courses
We offer a broad and balanced curriculum, for key stage 3 (Years 7-9), key stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) and key stage 5 (Years 12 and 13 - Sixth Form). Click the appropriate button below to find the details for each subject offered in each key stage.
Further details of our curriculum are available on the curriculum page.
Overview
English Language
Introduction
In this course we will study English both as a medium of communication and as a topic in its own right. Using a multitude of texts, we will consider the roots of English, explore theories about its influence on our attitudes, and evaluate different views of its power and usage - both positive and negative! There are no set texts to study and students are encouraged to apply skills learned in lessons to everyday material.
Language is more than a tool for communication, it shapes our thoughts and in doing so it shapes our world. This is the focus of English language A-level.
Qualification
A-level
Awarding body
AQA
Course leader
Mr R Benn
Assessment
- Examination: 80%
- 40%: language, the individual and society (2 hours 30).
- 40%: language diversity and change
- Non-examined assessment: 20%
- 10% language in action: language investigation.
- 10% language in action: original writing.
Curriculum
Course content
We study the way groups such as young people, those with ethnic backgrounds and those with a disability are represented in the media. To do so, we will use key theories of language to better understand how and why language can influence society’s attitudes towards these groups. We will also explore how children learn to speak, read and write language and debate how education and society affects children’s development and social status.
Skills developed include writing for a non-specialist audience, discursive essay writing, detailed analysis and evaluation of data, and applying a variety of theories and concepts to answers confidently.
Topics
- Textual variations and representations.
- Children’s language development.
- Language diversity and change.
- Language discourses.
- Writing skills.
- Language investigation.
- Original writing.
Skills and requirements
Entry requirements
- Grade 5 in GCSE English language
- Grade 5 in GCSE English literature.
Beyond the classroom
Past activities have included:
- A debating club.
- Public speaking competitions.
- Trips to the theatre and cinema.
- Support for entering students into national creative writing competitions.
Future pathways
English language can lead to a higher or further education course in English or communications, as well as careers in journalism, teaching, the media, public relations, marketing, broadcasting, linguistics and law. It is a useful qualification for all courses, developing analytical skills and providing evidence of the ability to use language successfully.
