English Language and Literature A-level

You will study literary texts such as plays, novels and poems, but the course concentrates more on learning and developing the skills of language analysis. This is further developed by the study of conversations, interviews and speeches, and there is a whole new vocabulary of linguistic terminology to become familiar with. You will learn to look at language ‘through a microscope’ and to recognise how much social and cultural values underpin everyday language, but you still continue to explore the literary heritage of the past.

You will concentrate on analysing language, as well as studying literary texts and poems. Your studies will involve exploring the social and cultural values that underpin everyday language, as well as the literary heritage of the past. Your study will include the following: Unit 1 - Introduction to language and literature study (examined unit); Unit 2 - Themes in language and literature (coursework unit); Unit 3 - Talk in life and literature (examined unit); Unit 4 - Text transformation (coursework unit).

You will learn through a combination of coursework and timed assessments, and study a number of literary texts. You will need to commit to spending at least five hours of reading a week.

Your English Language and Literature AS level can be a stand-alone qualification or lead on to A2 study. Students will often go on theatre trips as part of their learning, and contribute to student publications. You will be encouraged to take part in national literary days. The College also arranges for visiting speakers to come and discuss their work with students. You will have your own specialist personal tutor who you will meet individually or as part of a tutorial and they will help you set review and achieve your targets. There is an extensive programme of support to help you make higher education decisions and moving on to university. The vast majority of A-level students progress successfully to higher education. There is an extensive programme of enrichment opportunities on offer and you will be encouraged to select from a range including volunteering, work experience, sport and performing.

Six GCSEs grades A* to C including a grade B in English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

This is a popular course blending well with many other subjects. The course will improve your writing and analytical skills and teach you to ‘read between the lines’. You would be welcomed on a range of higher education courses including linguistics and language studies.