English language and literature

This is an accessible and stimulating course in which students engage creatively and independently with a variety of spoken, written and multi-modal texts.

Designed with a focus on the integration of language and literature, this specification enables students to see how linguistic and literary methods are related and to explore these links in their work. Offering clear skills progression from GCSE, this course allows students to build on the skills and knowledge already gained and prepare for their next steps.

The variety of assessment styles used, such as re-creative writing, commentary writing, discursive essays and research-based investigative writing, allows students to develop a wide range of skills. These include the ability to read critically, analyse, evaluate and undertake independent research, which are invaluable for both further study and future employment.

English course content

• Exploring non-fiction and spoken texts
• Anthology and unseen texts
• The language of poetry and plays
• Exploration of texts through stylistic and dramatic analysis
• Reading as a writer
• Writing as a reader
• The nature of narrative
• Analytical comparative essays
• Original non-fiction writing

English examination

Component 1: Exploring non-fiction and spoken texts – 1 hour exam, 16% of grade
Component 2: The language of poetry and plays – 2 hour exam, 32% of grade
Component 3: Reading as a writer, writing as a reader – 2 hour exam, 32% of grade
Component 4: NEA (coursework) Independent study – analysing and producing texts – Non exam assessment, 20% of grade