A Levels - English Language and English Literature

English Language

Have you ever wondered where English came from and where it is going, or what effect text messaging is having on our language? If any of these questions interest you, you will enjoy this course. This course will give you the opportunity to discover the world of the English Language and is an exciting step towards the study of language and linguistics at a higher level.

During the course you will discover how to analyse language using new terminology and the examination of a wide range of everyday examples. You will also look at the social factors which affect the way we speak and write, including the impact of technology, gender and power relationships. You will also produce an original writing folder based on your own interests.

In addition, you will look closely at the history of English and aspects of language acquisition – the ways in which humans learn to speak and write. You’ll also look at aspects of language change, child language acquisition and you will get lots of opportunities to develop your own creative writing skills.

Why choose English Language?

English Language prepares you for careers which require good communication skills such as Publishing, Journalism, Management, the Legal Profession, Teaching and many others. An A Level in English Language offers excellent university progression due to the highly analytical nature of the course.

English Literature

Do you love reading? Do you have a questioning mind and enjoy discussions? Do you have imaginative ideas about texts?

English Literature will allow you to study some of the best loved texts from the greatest renowned authors, poets and playwrights from throughout the ages, including Shakespeare.

During the course, you will read and analyse a range of texts, from traditional literature and poetry, to some new and very exciting literary examples of our own time. In addition, you will study the language that authors use to create meaning and explore the social, cultural and historical contexts within which the books were written.

Why choose English Literature?

An A Level in English Literature is highly regarded by many universities and is considered to be a very valuable subject, which offers skills for any degree course. It therefore offers excellent progression to university and can lead on to careers such as Journalism, Teaching, Law and Politics.

English Language and Literature combined

A Level English Language and Literature enables students to reach a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary forces that have influenced the literary and linguistic heritage of the English language.

You will study a wide variety of texts including fictional and historical documents and develop an independence and confidence in reading, speaking and writing for a variety of purposes and audiences.

The course will encourage and develop the skills necessary to analyse the ways that spoken English is represented in both literary and non-literary contexts. This will enable you to work towards a wider understanding of the way that language functions as a medium of communication; as a consequence, you will improve your own skills of analysis and self-expression.

Why choose English Language and Literature Combined?

This is a useful qualification for entry to degrees in Journalism, Teaching and Business and is held in high regard by many universities and employers who favour the strong analytical skills gained by students.

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