English Language

Why choose English Language?

Edexcel A Level English Language offers learners the opportunity to study the English language and its use in contemporary communication. The syllabus explores the psychology of language and how it is used in a variety of forms that embrace the spoken and digital as well as the printed word. The course develops skills in textual analysis, writing creatively, identifying and using appropriate styles and registers for different contexts, and understanding how language is used to inform and persuade.

How you will be assessed

Component 1: Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated (20% of A Level)

Learners are assessed on either acting or design.

Component 2: Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a visiting examiner (40% of A Level)

Learners are assessed on either acting or design. They must realise their performance live for the visiting examiner and produce a process and evaluation report within one week of completion of the practical work.

Component 3: A two-and-a-half hour written examination (40% of A Level)

Sections A and B, Open book: Two questions based on two different texts, one written pre-1956 and one written post-1956.

Section C, Closed book: The extract of text required for answering the questions will be printed on the examination paper, with a series of questions.

Course requirements

It is recommended that students have attained literacy skills at a level 5 in GCSE English Language.

Related subjects at Sixth Form

Subjects that relate well to this course include English Literature, History, Religion, Ethics and Philosophy, Politics, Psychology and Modern Languages.

Where could this lead?

English Language fosters skills in communication and leads to a wide range of career opportunities including: law, writing, journalism, broadcasting, personnel management, teaching, social work, copywriting, marketing and advertising.

Further important information

The English Language course requires students to write for a wide range of audiences and there are many opportunities for these skills to be fostered outside the classroom in writing for school publications and for competitions.