English Language (A-Level)

Outline

Language and variation

Explore how language varies between individuals and communities and how the way we communicate can shape and express our identities.

You will also look back through history to discover how the English language has developed and changed over time.

Child language acquisition

How do babies learn to talk? How do children begin to form sentences, and how do they develop literacy skills such as reading and writing?

You will examine the fascinating processes involved in acquiring spoken and written language.

Investigating language

You will explore a range of contemporary issues in language, which may include:

• Global English
• Language and power
• Journalism
• Language and gender
• Regional language variation

You will learn how to investigate language systematically, work with linguistic evidence and develop informed arguments about how English is used.

Crafting language

You won’t just analyse the writing of others – you will develop your own craft as a writer.

You could produce work in forms such as short stories, travel blogs and magazine articles, adapting your language and style for different audiences, purposes and contexts.

Progression

English Language develops skills that are useful across a wide range of university courses and careers, particularly those involving communication, language, writing and analysis.

Speech and language therapy

Developing your understanding of speech sounds and the ways children learn to communicate can provide a valuable foundation for further study in areas connected to speech and language.

Publishing and writing

You will develop your own writing while exploring a wide variety of textual genres, building skills relevant to writing, publishing and other communication-based careers.

Business and marketing

Understanding persuasion, audiences and the power of language can support progression into areas such as business, marketing and communications.

The analytical, research and writing skills developed throughout the course can also provide excellent preparation for higher education.

Assessment

You will complete three examinations at the end of the two-year course, alongside a coursework component.

For your coursework, you will produce two original pieces of writing together with a commentary in which you evaluate and explain the linguistic choices you have made.

Paper 3 also gives you greater independence. You will choose an area of language study that interests you from a pre-released selection of topics, developing valuable research skills in preparation for higher education.

Entry Requirements

A combination of 5 Grade 4’s and 5’s or above at GCSE (including maths and English). * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE. Subject Specific Entry Requirements: GCSE English Language at Grade 5.

* Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

Apply

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