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ENGLISH LANGUAGE

why choose a level english language?

English Language develops advanced analytical skills, confident academic writing, independent research, and intellectual curiosity. It is highly valued by Russell Group universities and supports progression into competitive careers including Law, Politics, Journalism, Finance, Technology and Communications.

How is GCSE English Language different from A Level?
GCSE English Language A Level English Language
Skills-based analysis Academic study of language and linguistics
Analyse short, guided extracts Analyse unseen spoken and written data
Short responses, teacher-led Extended essays, independent analysis
Identify features and effects Evaluate language in context – consider identity, power and variation over time
No original writing Complete independent coursework: original writing plus analytical commentary
What will I study?

English Language focuses on real-world language, not set literary texts. Students analyse:

  • Spoken language (e.g. conversations, interviews, transcripts)

  • Written texts (e.g. journalism, speeches, opinion writing)

  • Digital and media language (e.g. social media, online discourse)

Texts and data sets vary ensuring breadth, relevance, and contemporary focus.  

A Level English Language - Course Structure and Assessment

All assessments are completed by the end of Year 13

Overall weighting

  • 80% external examinations; 20% non-examined assessment (coursework)

Paper 1: Language Variation
35% | 2 hours  15 minutes | 60 marks
Students explore:

  • How language varies by audience, purpose, mode, context and identity

  • Individual language use in contemporary texts

  • Language change from c1550 to the present day

Assessment: two questions based on comparative analysis of unseen texts.

Paper 2: Child Language
20% | 1 hour 15 minutes | 45 marks
Students study:

  • How children acquire spoken language and writing (ages 0–8)

  • Key theories of language development

Assessment: one question based on analysis of either unseen spoken or written data.

Paper 3: Investigating Language
25% | 1 hour 45 minutes | 45 marks
Students:

  • Research a pre-released language subtopic

  • Analyse unseen data

  • Evaluate findings using their own investigation

Assessment: two questions – one on unseen data and one evaluative question based on researched subtopic.

Non-Examined Assessment: Crafting Language
20% (Coursework) | 50 marks
Students produce:

  • Two pieces of original writing in the same genre for different audiences or purposes

  • An analytical commentary reflecting on language choices and research

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