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Having a multiplicity of uses, studying English Language and Literature develops students as independent, confident and reflective readers, while developing skills of analysis and fostering creativity in your own writing.
Students with an A Level in English Language and Literature have entered careers in journalism, the media, advertising, education, medicine and more.
Mr Clark
Teacher i/c of English Language and Literature
[email protected]
‘English Literature was an obvious choice for me. Having a clearer understanding of a novel, and why the author chose certain themes, vocabulary, and personalities, makes me love reading so much more. It’s even better in Sixth Form because we each have the opportunity to share our own perspective on contextual aspects, both historic and modern. There are so many amazing books that have been suggested which I cannot wait to read in my own time’ – (Grace)
Please note: Mrs Kaufmann-Ward is the former Head of English Language and Literature. Mr Clark is the current Teacher i/c of English Language and Literature.
The Course
English Language and Literature has long been a popular course at the College studied by scientists, mathematicians and linguists alike. It offers a more technical approach to the study of English and therefore appeals to a wide range of students.
We follow the AQA specification.
At the start of the course you will learn the ‘nuts and bolts’ of linguistic analysis so that you can apply these skills to all parts of the course. The course will be examined at the end of the two years. It is divided into three components:
Paper 1
You will learn about how and why stories of different kinds are told, evaluate how stories are told by drawing on knowledge of language and consider why stories are worth telling, or are valuable within society.
You will study a range of text types based on the themes of: Remembered Places – the representation of place (Paris Anthology); Imagined Worlds – the point of view and genre in prose (novel); Poetic Voices – the forms and functions of poetic voice (selection of one poet’s work).
Paper 2
Section A of this paper focuses on how language choices help construct ideas of conflict between people and between people and their societies.
Drawing on your knowledge of the text studied, you will produce re-creative work that centres on a previously absent or underplayed perspective in the original work (recasting characters). You will write a commentary which will evaluate your own work for linguistic and literary choices and their intended effect. In Section B you will study a play and focus on conflict within drama.
Enrichment Opportunities
We encourage our students to take a keen interest in their set texts and in 2024 we will be running a trip to see Othello at The Globe Theatre in London. We also run ‘Page to Screen’ evenings aimed at both English Language and Literature and English Literature students across Year 12 and Year 13. In the club we watch film versions of set texts and those related to them and discuss directors’ choices and interpretations.
What do our students think of A Level English Language and Literature?
“The course really opens your mind to diverse interpretations of talk in both real life and in text, giving you a new and fuller perspective on the book you read, the advertising you see and even in the way you speak to those around you.”
Jobs that an A Level in English Language and Literature could lead to:
Academic Librarian; Advertising Account Executive; Copywriter; Digital Copywriter; Arts Administrator; Information Officer; Marketing Executive; Public Relations Officer; Records Manager; Editorial Assistant; English as a Foreign Language Teacher; Lexicographer; Magazine/Newspaper Journalist; Primary/Secondary School Teacher; Writer.
Non-Exam Assessment
Making Connections
This element of the course allows you to make active connections between literary and non-literary material based on a chosen theme, idea or linguistic strategy. You will produce a personal investigation that explores a specific technique or theme in both literary and non-literary discourse. This area is non-examined and provides personalised and independent learning opportunities, as well as a valuable chance to work on your academic research and writing skills. You will be expected to produce a 2,500 – 3,000 word essay on your chosen area of comparison.
Assessment
You will sit a three part exam for Paper 1 based on the texts worth 40% of the A Level. You will sit a further three part exam for Paper 2 which is also worth 40%. The non-exam assessment is worth 20% of the A Level.
Entry Requirements
Minimum 66555 including 6 in English Language.
