Overview
This course allows you to explore, discuss, analyse, and evaluate the English language in all its varied and exciting forms. You will also have the opportunity to recreate language and write creatively for specific audiences and purposes.
You will learn the terminology, methods, and processes needed to analyse language effectively. The course includes the study of real-world data, including transcripts of dialogue, and explores how individuals use language to represent identity and how different groups manipulate language for their own purposes. English language is a living subject that evolves alongside the language used around us.
These skills will prepare you for examinations and extended coursework, helping you to apply your knowledge in practical and analytical ways.
Entry requirements
GCSE English Language – Grade 5 in Language and Literature GCSE
Course content
Paper 1: Language, the individual and society
In this unit, you will study a range of texts, audiences, and genres. You will develop comprehensive methods of language analysis, including:
- Grammar
- Lexis
- Pragmatics
- Discourse
You will explore how representations are created and study child language development.
Paper 2: Language diversity and change
This unit focuses on how language changes over time and how diversity is created. You will research and analyse areas such as dialect, sociolect, and idiolect, as well as how language is used by people of different ages and how gender identities are represented through language.
You will build on the methods of analysis introduced in Paper 1 and have opportunities to debate issues in greater depth. In the exam, you will also be required to write creatively in response to the texts you have analysed.
Coursework
You will complete two pieces of coursework, totalling 3,500 words:
- Original Writing – A creative writing assignment that allows you to express ideas you have explored throughout the course.
- Language Investigation – An individual research project in which you choose a language topic that interests you, collect and analyse data, and present your findings and conclusions. This task allows you to develop your own ideas and showcase independent research skills.
Trips, visits and extra-curricular
The sixth form has a newsletter committee and encourages budding journalists to contribute articles. The English department also organises visits from university lecturers who are specialists in language and linguistics, such as Chris Montgomery and Rob Drummond.
Students have the opportunity to attend plays, museums, and subject-specific lectures at Sheffield University and Lancaster University, enriching their understanding and experience of English.
Assessment
Paper 1: Language, the individual and society (2 hour 30 minute exam) 40% Paper 2: Language diversity and change (2 hour 30 minute exam) 40% Coursework (2 pieces: 1 language investigation, 1 creative writing) 20%
Results
The English department has a strong track record of high achievement at both GCSE and A Level. Students consistently outperform similar schools across all assessment objectives, with coursework and exam results well above national averages.
Our A Level Language and Literature courses are taught by experienced specialists who are also exam markers and work closely with Russell Group university academics. Feedback from examiners highlights the insight and quality of our students’ work.
We now also offer A Level Media, building on the expertise of our team to provide an engaging and academically rigorous course.
Exam board
AQA