RVHS Pathways to Success, 2024 - English Language and Literature

Course Summary

Over the next two years, you will be following the GCSE course for English Language and GCSE English Literature. You will be entered for two separate exams: one in English and one in Literature giving you two separate GCSE qualifications.

English Language and English Literature aims to develop pupils’ ability to communicate effectively and confidently in both the spoken and written word and to listen with interest and understanding. The study of literature encourages enjoyment and engagement with a broad range of texts developing your creativity and empathy. Throughout the course, you will have opportunities to develop a critical awareness of yourself and the ever-changing society in which we live, as well as an appreciation of other eras and societies.

Course Assessment

English Language GCSE

Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing - 50% of GCSE English Language
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives - 50% of GCSE English Language
Spoken Language is awarded as a separate endorsement

English Literature GCSE

Paper 1: Shakespeare and 19th Century Prose - 40% of GCSE English Literature
Paper 2: Modern Texts and Poetry - 60% of GCSE English Literature

Please note that the Literature exams are all closed book, therefore quotes need to be memorised for the exam. Students need to make this a regular practice from the beginning of the course

How Can I Do Well in This Subject?

English Language and English Literature are subjects where you will build upon previous learning throughout the school. It is therefore extremely important for you to use prior knowledge and to continue to develop this throughout Years 10 and 11.

If you miss a lesson, you will need to catch up in your own time. Home Learning is essential to your progress: it provides support to the work done in lessons and therefore must be completed when set. Failure to do so could seriously jeopardize your grades.

You will need to prepare conscientiously for these using all your notes and preparation whilst addressing the assessment criteria to produce the best possible standard of work.

Recommended Reading and Text Books

Great Expectations: Charles Dickens
Lord of the Flies: William Golding
Pride and Prejudice: Jane Austen
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: Robert Louis Stevenson
Jane Eyre: Charlotte Bronte
Anita and Me: Meera Syal
Animal Farm: George Orwell
A Room with a View: EM Forster
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time: Mark Haddon
Any pre-twentieth century prose/poetry/drama,
Read a quality newspaper/magazine on a regular basis, read a variety of non-fiction texts including biography, travel writing, diaries, blogs, web pages, journals etc.
Listen to quality speech radio programmes

Summary of English Language and Literature GCSE.docx

Recommended Websites

Staff Contact

Mrs Routledge - Head of Faculty, please click here to send an email.