A level english language

What will I study?

This course leads to an A Level in English Language. It is an opportunity to understand how language works in a modern, up-todate setting. From the back of the bus ticket to tomorrow’s best-selling novel and from the Prime Minister’s speech on television last night to the conversation with a friend in the common room, English Language is about the study of live language in use. The course presents many opportunities for mini-research projects, data collection and presentations. Particularly for those committed to English study at university, taking this course alongside A Level English Literature can be a powerful combination, giving students an impressive depth and breadth of understanding of all matters of English study

Course Content

The course offers the opportunity to write a variety of texts and to be able to justify choice of language in a rigorous and systematic way. Much of the course is devoted to the analysis of language and how this can be applied to what we read, write and say in everyday life. Students will learn how to analyse spoken language to learn about issues concerning the development of the English language and its use by particular groups. The course will also give students an understanding of how we develop language in childhood and also how English has evolved over time into the language we recognise today. Whilst some of the course is a progression from familiar aspects of GCSE English, much of the course will be new and challenging: a chance to gain an understanding of the science of linguistics.

Progression

As well as leading to further, degree level study, success in English Language demonstrates skills of accurate, subtle and sophisticated communication skills. These skills are in demand by employers in almost any field where effective communication is required.