The course offers opportunities for students to develop analytical expertise by engaging critically with a diverse range of texts from different modes, genres and contexts. Lively debates around language issues will be a springboard for students to articulate their own opinions. Students will work autonomously to investigate a language-based topic of personal interest. They will also have the scope to create narrative or journalistic texts in genres which inspire them and reflect critically on their own processes of production.

A Level English Language focuses on:

• How individual and social contexts shape language use, including variations due to gender, power and occupation;
• How children learn to speak, read and write English between the ages of 0 and 11;
• The diversity of the English language, including its different dialects and sociolects;
• Changes in language use from 1600 to the present day.

Assessment
Paper 1 - 40%

• Textual variations and representations 
  
• Children’s language development 
  

Paper 2 - 40%

• Language diversity 
  
• Language change 
• Writing skills 

Non-Exam Assessment (Coursework) - 20%

• Language investigation 
  
• Original writing 
  

Skills Developed and Career Prospects

Studying English Language allows students to develop their ability to express themselves both in speech and writing with increasing sophistication, independence and elan. Students will undertake a varied programme of critical reading, learning to analyse texts in detail, investigate linguistic concepts and develop skills of independent study.

A Level English Language complements a wide range of A Levels including Sociology, English Literature and History. As a discipline which demands thorough analytical skills, it enhances all programmes of study. The course leads to a qualification which facilitates access to a wide range of career opportunities, including teaching, writing, journalism and law.