English Language
GCSE
This is an interesting and stimulating course which involves both a practical, skills-based and an academic approach to language. You are encouraged to develop your interest and enjoyment in the use of English, through learning more about its structures and its functions, its development and its variations. You will learn to express yourself with increasing competence and sophistication, encounter a varied range of reading, and develop skills of critical and attentive listening.
Course Content
The course consists of a variety of oral and written tasks, some of which are assessed internally and some by external examination.
Internally assessed:
4 written tasks:
- Extended reading
- Creative writing x 2
- Spoken language study
A range of speaking and listening tasks to include:
- Discussions
- Individual contributions
- Role plays
The external examination will include:
- Media and non-fiction texts
- A long and a short writing task loosely linked to the theme of the texts
Daytime students will also complete their Functional skills Level 2 Communication qualification.
How it is Taught
Teaching will be through whole class, group and individual activities. Daytime students will have four lessons a week. In the first term and a half, the focus will be on completing the internally assessed tasks, after that students prepare for the exam paper.
Examination Details
| Paper Title | Duration | Date |
| Understanding and producing non-fiction texts | 2 hours | June |
Entry Requirements
Most students who have not achieved a grade C in GCSE in English Language will go into a GCSE class.
Useful/Common Subject Combinations
In most cases, employers and universities will expect students to have GCSE English at grade C or above. It is an essential requirement to be able to communicate ideas clearly in written and spoken English and understand information conveyed by others.