English Language
GCSE
Course Content
The course consists of a variety of oral and written tasks, some of which are assessed by examination and some through coursework.
Coursework:
4 written tasks:
- personal writing to explore, imagine, entertain
- personal writing to inform, explain, describe
- response to a book or selection of short stories
- response to a Shakespeare play.
A range of speaking and listening tasks to include:
- discussions
- individual contributions
- drama activities
The examinations will include:
- Media texts, unseen fiction texts
- Writing to argue, persuade, advise
- Reading poetry from different cultures and traditions
- Writing to analyse, review, comment
Daytime students will also complete their Functional Skills Level 2 communication qualification.
How it is Taught
Teaching will be through a variety of teacher-led, 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 coursework, after that students prepare for the exam papers.
Examination Details
| Paper | Title | Duration | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Media, non-fiction and writing to argue, persuade, advise | 1 hour 40 mins | June |
| 2 | Reading poetry from different cultures and traditions and writing to analyse, review, comment | 1 hour 30 mins | 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 grade C or above. It is important to demonstrate the ability to communicate ideas clearly in written and spoken English and understand information conveyed by others.