English

GCSE English is a subject you all have to study and it helps you in a wide range of careers. Click here to see a small selection of where it can take you. Do remember English enables you to develop skills and understanding that will benefit any career you choose.

GCSE English Language and English Literature

Contact Information: Mr Tutt, Head of Department

Course Content

The English GCSE course at Sprowston will consist of two GCSE subjects: English Language and English Literature.

English Language assesses reading comprehension and writing skills where students will be asked to analyse a range of fiction and non-fiction texts and will be asked to write with style, sophistication and professionalism in a range of fiction and non-fiction styles. Students will be required to create and deliver an individual persuasive presentation on a topic of their choice.

English Literature assesses students’ ability to analyse and evaluate novels, plays and poetry, looking at aspects such as structure, character, theme, writer’s intent and language and builds the ability to infer meaning in language and culture.

To achieve best results students should read regularly, with curiosity, and write experimentally.

Skills Developed

English is all about communication through reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It involves critically and analytically reading novels, plays, poetry and non-fiction, and writing about all of these as well as producing your own imaginative writing. GCSE English Language and Literature empowers you to manipulate language for a variety of purposes in a range of contexts and to engage meaningfully and critically with the written texts central to functioning as citizens and in the world of work.

Assessment

You will follow the AQA GCSE English Language and AQA GCSE English Literature specifications. Both of these courses are 100% exam: there is no controlled assessment or coursework. The terminal exams are made up in the following way:

AQA English Language:

Paper 1 (50%):

Paper 2 (50%):

NEA (Non-Exam Assessment) Class presentation or Speech - awarded pass/merit/distinction

Eduqas English Literature:

Paper 1 (40%):

Paper 2 (60%):

Progression Routes

Academic:

A level English Literature or

A level English Language &  Literature

History

Ancient History

Drama/Theatre Studies

Media studies

Psychology

Law

Sociology

Applied:

Apprenticeships

Work- based learning

Employment:

Education

Business

Performing Arts

Film industry

Media industry

Journalism

Law

All occupations and routes of progression will require a level of written and verbal communication.