English Language A Level

How do we learn to talk? How has the English Language changed over time? How does language represent the world around us? These and many other questions will be addressed on this fascinating course which offers something quite different from GCSE English study. You will become a linguist, able to analyse a wide range of spoken and written texts. You will produce pieces of journalistic writing about language, study subtle forms of bias in media texts and explore how power, gender and technology interact with language in different contexts. In the second year you will conduct an independent language investigation and produce an accompanying academic poster.

Additional

Grade 5 in GCSE English Language and English Literature (if taken).

Assessment

80% exams and 20% coursework.

Progression

There are some excellent English Language or Language and Linguistics degree courses for which English Language A level is ideal. You can also apply for combined Language and Literature degrees. If you are applying for a degree course entitled “English” or “English Literature”, an A Level in English Literature is usually required. Students doing a wide variety of other subjects, in Arts, Humanities and Sciences, also take A level English. They go on to many different courses and careers. The skills that you learn are a useful starting point for careers in the arts and the media (including journalism), law and business, and in other professions where a disciplined approach and critical awareness are needed. Please note that it is possible to study English Language and English Literature as separate A levels.