English Language A Level

English Language takes a very different approach to language from that taken in GCSE English Language. It takes you into the world of Linguistics. You will learn a whole new terminology to help you understand how language works and you will apply this new knowledge to the analysis of a wide range of texts, both written and spoken.

You will learn about how different groups of people use language differently in different situations. This explores the sociological impact of language.

You will also learn how the English Language has changed over the years and how children develop language skills. You will consider different psychological approaches to language.

This course will also help develop your own language skills, enabling you to write in a variety of genres for a range of different audiences.

You will be advised which texts you will need to purchase for the course.

Year 1

• The foundation elements needed in order to examine language in a technical manner

• Analysis and comparison of a variety of texts from different time periods

• Language diversity: social groups, occupation, gender and region

Year 2

• Analysis and comparison of a variety of texts from different time periods

• Language change: how English has changed over time and around the world

• Children’s language development

• A piece of original writing and a language investigation

There will be two exams at the end of the second year, worth 80%. There will also be two pieces of work for the non-examined assessment: a piece of original writing with a commentary and a language investigation, worth 20% of the course.

Former students have gone on to study various degree courses in humanities at university and into careers such as in journalism, law, teaching and social work.