English Language

AS and A Level 

Are you interested in a variety of examples of spoken and written language? Do you enjoy analysing how and why language varies? Want to hone your own writing skills by producing a range of texts yourself?

In this course you will study the English language as a medium of communication; follow lines of enquiry; debate different views and work independently to research aspects of language in use. You will engage critically and creatively with diverse written and spoken texts. We look at texts for different purposes and audiences; and
a variety of genres.

Topics include children’s language development, including related theories; how language varies depending on aspects such as region (dialect), gender and occupation; and texts from different periods from 1600 to the present day (language change).

Careers and study progression
The skills of communication, critical reasoning and analysis are excellent for any future careers, including in education, online journalism, and marketing. English Language is relevant to so many degree courses and careers – and can help you keep your options open.

Exam board
AQA

Entry criteria
Grade 6 in GCSE English Language

Assessment
AS Level: Two written examination papers (Year 12)
A Level: Two written examination papers (80%) and a non-examined assessment (20%) (Year 13)