GCSE English Language & Literature

WJEC GCSE English Language and Literature (Single and Double Award)

The WJEC GCSE English Language and Literature qualification is designed for students in Wales and offers two pathways: a Single Award and a Double Award. The qualification aims to develop students' ability to read, understand, and respond to a range of written and spoken texts from different cultures and time periods. It also focuses on enhancing their writing skills by encouraging clear, accurate, and creative expression. The qualification aligns with the Curriculum for Wales, emphasising progression and the development of key skills such as critical thinking, empathy, and communication.

The course is divided into different units that cover themes such as "Context and Meaning," "Belonging," and "Influence and Power." Some units are assessed through written exams, while others involve non-exam assessments, including creative writing tasks and oral presentations. In the Single Award, students will complete four units, while those taking the Double Award will study additional units that further explore literature through themes like "Continuity and Change" and "Connections." The qualification encourages students to engage with a variety of literary texts, from poetry and prose to Shakespearean plays, helping them analyse themes, characters, and language effectively.

Assessment is a combination of exams and coursework, with students required to complete tasks such as analytical essays, creative writing pieces, and group discussions. The qualification promotes inclusivity, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to access and succeed in the course. The skills developed throughout the qualification not only support further academic study, such as A-levels, but also prepare students for real-world applications in communication, critical analysis, and creative expression.