Has the English language evolved or deteriorated over time? Does the social group we beloing to influence our language use? Does the way we think affect language or does our language affect the way we think? Why are young people so skillful at adapting their language depending on the context? These are the questions you will get an opportunity to explore on the English Language A Level.
Qualification – A Level
Examination Board - AQA
Specification – View on the AQA Website
Subject Lead: Miss Simpson
English Language focuses more on ‘non-literary’ texts from journalism, advertising, conversations and documents. This course is highly-regarded by universities as it helps you form sound arguments and develop excellent analytical skills.
Students will begin their studies with an introduction to the study of language, where they will analyse a wide variety of short written and spoken texts. We then move on to study language in detail covering topics such as how teenagers and parents speak to each other and how powerful leaders such as Barrack Obama use language. Students will also have the chance to explore how the English Language has changed over the centuries (and is still changing) and how children acquire their language skills.
The course is examined over three components:
Paper 1: Language, the Individual and Society
Written paper: 2 hours 30 minutes (40% of A Level)
Paper 2: Language Diversity and Change
Written paper: 2 hours 30 minutes (40% of A Level)
Non-exam assessment: Language in Action
Coursework (20% of A Level)
Academy Entry Requirements: A minimum of five GCSE grades 9 – 4.
Students must attain a GCSE grade 5 or above in English Language.
"I chose A-level English Language due to my fascination with language in use. This subject delves into the intricacies of communication, the influence of society on language, and the process of language acquisition. Exploring profound questions about language and thought added to the captivating nature of A-level English Language. Conducting original investigations on language topics we found intriguing offered freedom and topical engagement. What makes English Language my favourite subject is the ability to apply what I've learned to real-life conversations, observing how language theories manifest in everyday interactions. The skills developed, including essay writing, language analysis, viewpoint writing, and independent research, complement my other subjects seamlessly."
How to apply
You can find full details on how to apply to our sixth form on the Admissions page
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