The aims of language A: language and literature higher level courses are to: 

• introduce students to a range of texts from different periods, styles and genres 

• develop in students the ability to engage in close, detailed analysis of individual texts and make relevant connections 

• develop the students’ powers of expression, both in oral and written communication

•  encourage students to recognize the importance of the contexts in which texts are written and received 

• encourage an appreciation of the different perspectives of other cultures, and how these perspectives construct meaning

•  encourage students to appreciate the formal, stylistic and aesthetic qualities of texts

•  promote in students an enjoyment of, and lifelong interest in, language and literature 

• develop in students an understanding of how language, culture and context determine the ways in which meaning is constructed in texts 

• encourage students to think critically about the different interactions between text, audience and purpose. 

Having followed the language and literature higher level course, students will be expected to demonstrate the following.

 Knowledge and understanding 

•  knowledge and understanding of a range of texts 

•  understanding of the use of language, structure, technique and style 

• critical understanding of the ways in which readers construct meaning and the influence of context

• understanding of how different perspectives influence the reading of a text 

Application and analysis 

•  ability to choose a text type appropriate to the purpose required 

• ability to use terminology relevant to the various text types studied 

•  ability to analyse the effects of language, structure, technique and style on the reader 

•  awareness of the ways in which the production and reception of texts contribute to their meanings 

• ability to substantiate and justify ideas with relevant examples 

Synthesis and evaluation 

•  ability to compare and contrast the formal elements, content and context of texts 

•  ability to discuss the ways in which language and image may be used in a range of texts 

•  ability to evaluate conflicting viewpoints within and about a text 

•  ability to produce a critical response evaluating some aspects of text, context and meaning 

Selection and use of appropriate presentation and language skills 

• ability to express ideas clearly and with fluency, both written and orally 

• ability to use the oral and written forms of the language, in a range of styles, registers and situations 

• ability to discuss and analyse texts in a focused and logical manner 

• ability to write a balanced, comparative analysis