English Language

Course summary

English Language A Level is a fascinating introduction to the ways in which language varies, depending on the contexts of production and reception. The Edexcel course gives students the opportunity to explore how language choices can create personal identities and critically evaluate how language changes over time from 1550 to the present day. Students will have the opportunity to develop their research and investigation skills, by exploring specialist topics in depth such as ‘Language and Journalism’ or ‘Language and Power’. Students develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language and lessons are epitomised by discussion and debate, regarding the history, current use and future of the English language. Students will be expected to read widely and independently investigate the language in use. A real draw of the course is the fact that for coursework, students produce a creative writing folder on any genre and write a commentary which reflects on the process, whilst being encouraged to explore a range of forms ranging from dramatic monologue to travel writing. There are a variety of enrichment opportunities during the A Level course, including writing workshops, trips, attending lecture days in London, competitions and hearing eminent guest speakers.