English Language (A Level)

An introduction into the study of Linguistics, combining textual analysis and linguistic theory, with the opportunity for independent creative and investigative work.

What you will learn

Studying English Language will offer you a fascinating insight into how language functions and how it both shapes and reflects our society and culture. With a strong linguistic focus, the course will demand high level analytical skills when you examine a range of both spoken and written texts. Particular areas of study may include the impact gender has on language use and the impact of modern technology on language development. You will also have the opportunity to improve your writing skills by undertaking some creative writing tasks and being taught to appreciate the art of crafting your own writing.

How you will learn

• Analysing texts
• Discussion
• Group and paired work
• Oral presentations
• Essay writing
• Individual creative work
• Taught theory

Year 1

• Critical Discourse Analysis
• Spoken Language
• Language and social variation (gender, class, age)
• Language and regional variation (dialect)
• Creative writing
• Language investigation

Year 2

• Child Language Development
• History of Language Change
• The development of World English's
• Language discourses
• Editorial writing

Assessment 1: Language, the individual and society, written exam, 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of the final grade,

The first section of the exam focuses on the study of meanings and representations, requiring analysis of two unseen texts – one past, one present – on a similar theme.

The second part of the exam focuses on Child Language Development, with a text to inform broader analysis of the topic.

Assessment 2: Language diversity and change, written exam, 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of the final grade.

The first section of this paper requires an evaluative essay on either language diversity or language change, drawing on theoretical knowledge.

The second section focuses on attitudes to language, with two articles to compare and a further editorial writing task to complete.

Assessment 3: Language investigation and original writing, non-examined assessment, 20% of the final grade.

The NEA comprises two main parts: a creative writing submission plus critical commentary, and an independent linguistic investigation into an area of the student’s choice.

College basic entry requirements:

• Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language
• Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Literature

Where Next?

English Language is a highly regarded A-level. It is very versatile and would be looked upon favourably by most university course leaders. Specific courses for which it is highly regarded are: English Language, Linguistics, Law, humanities-based subjects, Psychology and Sociology.

As a core subject focused on effective communication, it makes a very useful contribution to any professional or career pathway.

Course Combinations

The course combines well with several A Level subjects including English Literature, History, Drama, Sociology, Psychology and Modern Foreign Languages.