English
| What is this course about? |
This course aims to develop students understanding and awareness of the mechanics of the English language. You will study how language is learned and used in all its different forms and varieties.
Topics include language study in relation to gender, power, occupation, age, environment, purpose and audience.
The course offers some scope for students to develop their own original writing especially in AS. |
What topics will I study?
As Units (first year work)
| Unit 1: Introduction to Language study |
A systematic study of spoken and written language. |
| Unit 2: Language and social contexts |
| The study of the language of different groups, particularly in terms of technology, region and power. |
| Unit 3: Original writing |
| The development of students' own expertise as writers for different audiences |
A2 Units (second year for those who decide to continue)
| Unit 4: Investigating Language |
| A student-choice project, applying some of the theory studied in Units 1 and 2. |
| Unit 5: Language Development |
| The study of language acquisition and how English has changed over time. |
| Unit 6: Editorial writing |
| Re-writing texts for different audiences, based on pre-released material. |
| How will my work be assessed? |
At the end of the first year you will sit two exams, one in Unit 1 and one in 2. You will also submit your original writing as coursework. Results should be available in August.
At the end of the second year, you will submit your Language Investigation project, and sit two exams, one in Unit 5 and one in Unit 6. Results should be available in August.
It is possible to re-sit units. If you do this, the higher grade always counts. |
| Frequently asked questions |
What are lessons like?
A wide range of teaching styles is used throughout the course, including: teacher-led and group discussions; practical/creative work, independent reading and research, and visiting speakers.
What do people do with A level English Language?
English Language is a fully recognised advanced level course, providing excellent preparation for entry to Higher Education. The subject is particularly useful for careers in teaching, journalism and marketing, and is an ideal qualification for further linguistic study.
Are there any special entry requirements?
Normal college entry requirements for Level 3 courses, including GCSE English Language. In addition you should have a genuine interest in language and how it works. |
| AS/A Level Courses |
A level is split into two parts: AS and A2
 AS is the first year of the A level course and the standard expected is between GCSE (grades A* - C) and an A2 course.
A2 is taken in the second year and builds upon AS level work.
Together AS and A2 make up a full A level: AS + A2 = A level.
AS and A2 courses are usually made up of three units each. AS units are taken during the first year of the course and A2 units in the second year. Unit examinations can be taken in January and in June but subjects vary in when exams are taken. Often one unit takes the form of coursework. It is possible to re-sit AS and A2 units, the best marks count towards the final AS or A level grade.
AS qualifications are graded A – E (pass) and U (fail).
AS also provides opportunities to develop key skills
You may choose to take an AS course and then continue to the full A level or to take the AS course as a stand-alone qualification. Progression from AS to A2 is dependant upon a pass at AS and a recommendation from your subject tutor that you have developed the necessary skills for the A2 course. |
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