Course Description

This course takes the study of the English language to a new dimension, encompassing words in both their written and spoken forms and from almost any source.

Controversial topics are discussed and debated, such as how men and women communicate and how you can wield language to have power over others.

The course begins by looking at language you will have experience of and will move towards looking at how language changes over time and around the world.

Contact:	Mrs H La Fevre	Exam Board:	AQA
QAN:	60146400	Subject Code:	En

The Course

You will look at spoken and written English, language used by different genders, in different regions of the British Isles and by different occupational groups. This will move beyond the language you have directly experienced as you study the development of English over time and across the world

You will explore how children acquire spoken and written language

You will look at how language represents different groups and attitudes towards language itself

You will produce a piece of original creative writing

You will complete your own individual and independent investigation into an aspect of language that fascinates you. Current student projects include:

• An analysis of language from Amber Heard's and Johnny Depp's final statements in their trial
• Lyricism in rap music over time
• An examination of the language of cults promoting harmful behaviour
• Stereotypes in The Fresh Prince of Bel Air
• Male and female language in TOWIE

The English Language A Level is an opportunity to think about the nature of language, and how it is used. The history of English and its use as a global language is explored alongside a consideration of how you as an individual use language every day. The NEA is a chance to think about an element of the subject you are interested in, and also to write creatively.

Entry Requirements 

Evidence of high levels of student commitment and teacher recommendation also required.

What do the students say? 

“It’s relevant and interesting and is better than GCSE!”

“If I ever have a question or an enquiry that I need to ask about - no matter how silly the question is, the teachers are amazing to talk to about it.”

“It is easy to understand how to do well and I feel well prepared for my exam.”

Possible Subject Combinations 

English Literature, Media Studies, Psychology and Sociology.

Any course which requires you to read critically or to write extended responses.

Where can English Language take me? 

University courses in English Language, Linguistics, Creative Writing, Journalism and other related courses. The skills that you acquire are highly transferable and could lead to employment in a broad range of professions including journalism, publishing, marketing, presenting, advertising and copywriting or Teaching.

Assessment