Course content & format

A Level English Language is an exciting and analytical course that explores how language works in the real world. You will study English both as a means of communication and as a subject in its own right, examining how language shapes identity, relationships, society and culture.

This is a two-year A Level course, normally studied alongside two other A Levels or equivalent qualifications. The course develops your ability to analyse language closely, explore different theories and ideas, and produce thoughtful, well-structured written responses. You will also complete an independent investigation and a creative writing task as part of the non-exam assessment.

The course is made up of three components:

· Paper 1: Language, the Individual and Society

· Paper 2: Language Diversity and Change

· Non-exam assessment: Language in Action

In Paper 1, you will study:

· textual variations and representations

· children’s language development (0–11 years)

· methods of language analysis integrated throughout the paper

In Paper 2, you will study:

· language diversity and change

· language discourses

· writing skills

· methods of language analysis integrated throughout the paper

As part of Language in Action, you will complete:

· a language investigation (2,000 words, excluding data)

· a piece of original writing and a commentary (750 words each)

Throughout the course, you will learn through discussion, close textual analysis, directed reading, essay writing, independent research and creative tasks. You will explore how context influences language use and how different texts present ideas, attitudes and representations.

Your unique experience

This course encourages you to engage creatively and critically with a wide range of spoken, written and multimodal texts. You will learn how to analyse the language choices made by others, while also developing your own voice as a writer.

A Level English Language gives you the opportunity to pursue your own lines of enquiry, debate different viewpoints and explore real examples of language in use. It is particularly well suited to students who are curious about communication, identity, power, social change and the relationship between language and society.

Students may also have opportunities to take part in enrichment activities such as English seminars, workshops, theatre visits and wider subject-related excursions.

English Language also complements a wide range of other A Level subjects, including History, Classical Civilisation, Law, Media, Film Studies and Sociology.

Entry Qualifications

Entry requirements for A Level courses

· Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics.

· A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen.

· A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment.

· An interview may be required as part of the application process.

Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.

How is this course assessed?

This course is assessed through two written examinations and one non-exam assessment:

· Paper 1: Language, the Individual and Society – 2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks, 40%

· Paper 2: Language Diversity and Change – 2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks, 40%

· Non-exam assessment: Language in Action – 100 marks, 20%

The NEA has a total word count of 3,500, made up of:

· 2,000 words for the language investigation

· 750 words for the original writing

· 750 words for the commentary

Assessment on the course includes close analysis of extracts, discursive and evaluative essays, directed writing and independent coursework. Students are also supported throughout the course through class discussion, presentations and regular feedback.

What can I do next?

A Level English Language is a well-respected academic qualification that develops valuable transferable skills in analysis, communication, argument, creativity and independent research.

Possible progression routes include:

· Higher Education

· Employment

· Apprenticeships or higher apprenticeships

This qualification can support progression into areas such as:

· English Language or Linguistics

· Journalism

· Creative Writing

· Law

· Teaching

· Publishing

· Broadcasting

· Marketing

· Branding

· Copywriting

· Graduate trainee programmes