English Language
GCE Advanced Level AS/A2
Course Content
AS
Unit 1 - Language Today
- Introduction to a wide range of written, spoken and electronic texts
- Study of the structures, concepts and methods of linguistic analysis
- Study of some social factors that influence the way we write and speak – like Gender, Power, Status and Occupations
Unit 2 – Exploring the Writing Process
- Study of texts in particular styles and genres
- Production of two texts of your own with a ‘commentary’ to explain the decisions made in the production of the pieces
A2
Unit 3 – Language Diversity and Children’s Language Development
- The acquisition of English by children
- The growth of and changes in English over time
Unit 4 – English Language Investigation and Presentation
- Presentation of an Investigation into any aspect of Language involving the collection and analysis of Language data
How it is Taught
Coursework constitutes 40% of the whole A Level and student are encouraged to pursue their individual interests in their choice of AS and A2 coursework units. The A2 in particular will involve a good deal of independent study that will be guided by the teacher.
The varied nature of the course lends itself to a range of teaching approaches, including whole class and small group work; also learning activities and skills development from creative writing to linguistic analysis and research.
Examination Details
| Unit | Title | Duration | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Language Today | 2 hours 15 mins | AS year - June |
| 2 | Exploring the Writing Process | Coursework | |
| 3 | Language Diversity and Change | 2 hours 45 mins | A2 year - June |
| 4 | English Language Investigation and Presentation | Coursework |
Entry Requirements
Students should have a GCSE grade C in English. Students should also meet the general college entry requirements for advanced level study. Please see the current Prospectus- Advanced Programmes, Entry Requirements.
Useful/Common Subject Combinations
English Language combines effectively with most other subjects, including Humanities, Foreign Languages and Business Studies. It is also useful at AS Level for students who wish to supplement otherwise largely science-based subjects. There is no overlap with any other subject, even English Literature.
Careers and HE Information
Some students go on to take Language-oriented degree courses or degrees for which Language is a useful preparation, such as Law, Business etc. It is highly relevant for students considering a teaching career, and is well regarded by employers for those students going directly into employment.