English Language

Subject Lead: Mr J Stephenson, The Green School for Boys

What will I study?

Component 1: Language, the Individual and Society

• The variations and representations of language

• Children’s language development (0-11 years)

• Frameworks for language analysis

Component 2: Language diversity and change

• Texts demonstrating diversity and change, covering social/cultural backgrounds, gender, ethnicity, nationality, and time

• Different styles of texts, including written, spoken, and electronic

• Writing skills

Component 3: Language in Action

• Independent research and investigation

• Original writing

How will it be assessed?

A-Level English Language, two year linear course. Examining board: AQA.

Paper 1: Language, the Individual and Society

Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes.

40% of A-Level

Paper 2: Language diversity and change

Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes.

40% of A-Level

Non-exam assessment: Language in Action

Word count: 3500 words total (2000 words language investigation plus 1500 words original writing and commentary).

20% of A-Level

Assessed by teachers and moderated by AQA

Where will it lead?

A-Level English Language develops communication skills; one of the most common skills that employers of all occupations look for. Some examples of fields where the strong communication skills gained through studying English Language are particularly useful:

• Journalism

• Law

• Copywriting

• Editing

• Website management

• Marketing

• Public relations

• Advertising

• Consultancy

• Social media

• Speech and language therapy

• Education

Enrichment opportunities

Theatre visits, debates, workshops and masterclasses.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 in English Language and a grade 5 in English Literature

Recommended Reading

•  A Little Book of Language - David Crystal

• Planet Word - J.P. Davidson, Stephen Fry

• The Myth of Mars and Venus - Deborah Cameron

• You Just Don’t Understand - Deborah Tannen 

• Textng: The Gr8 Db8 - David Crystal