English Language
‘The more we know about the language the more chance we shall have of success, whether we are advertisers, politicians, priests, journalists, doctors, lawyers–or just ordinary people at home, trying to understand and be understood.’ – Professor David Crystal
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Grade 6 in GCSE English Language
Subject Leader: Ms H. Matharu
Examination Board: AQA
A-Level Syllabus: 7702
Examinations: 80%
Non-Exam Assessment: 20%
What is A-Level English Language?
English Language will introduce you to the ways in which the English language is formed, developed and delivered in both our modern society and in your own life.
A-Level is assessed through two examinations and two pieces of coursework. You will study how children acquire language, the development of English across the centuries and around the world, and the diverse way in which English is influenced by gender, age, class, region, occupation, ethnicity and personal values.
For coursework, you will have the opportunity to complete a piece of research on a language topic of your choice. You also produce a piece of creative writing of your own for which you will write a commentary.
What makes a good Linguist?
A good linguist is excited by the way that the English language is constantly moving; a good linguist will always be on the search for ways in which the English language is both used and abused. A good linguist will read widely (books, magazines, cereal packets, train tickets); a good linguist will enjoy writing and will want to discuss what others have written too. A good linguist loves arguing about language!
What can I expect to learn in English Language?
The variety of assessment styles used, such as data analysis, discursive essays, directed writing, original writing and research-based investigative writing, allows you to develop a wide range of skills. These include critical reading, data analysis, evaluation, the ability to develop and sustain arguments and a number of different writing skills which are invaluable for both further study and future employment.
Where could English Language take me?
English Language creates students who are aware of how language can represent the world, and influence it. The course is ideal for budding journalists and politicians, for advertising and business, for working with the police as a forensic linguist or working with children in developing their speech or becoming a teacher. Because of the variety of skills learned, English Language is ideal as a foundation for degree level research and study.
