A Level English Language and Literature

How does the speech in a novel differ from everyday conversation? How does a news story manipulate your reaction to the events it describes? Do you ever ask yourself these questions? If so, English Language and Literature is a course you will enjoy.

About the course

English Language and Literature is a course that will allow you to study a diverse range of writers while learning how to craft your own unique writing. You will learn how to become an expert reader equipped with a clear linguistic focus helping you develop your interpretive and analytical skills. You will study modern fiction, poetry and drama.

There is also a fascinating collection of writing, including journalism, screenplays, podcasts, speeches and reportage as some of the genres included in the Voices anthology. Coursework gives you the opportunity to write your own original pieces inspired by texts on our reading list.

Opportunities unique to this course

English Language and Literature provides a unique opportunity to analyse texts from both a linguistic and literary point of view. Blending these two sides of English studies will enhance your understanding of writers’ methods and approaches while giving you the tools to develop yourself as a writer.

Component 1

Voices in speech and writing 40%.

• Voices in 20th and 21st-century texts
• Drama

Component 2

Varieties in Language and Literature 40%.

• Unseen Prose non-fiction texts
• Prose fiction and other genres

Component 3: Non-examined assessment

Investigating and Creating Texts 20%.

• Assignment 1: two pieces of original writing in response to a stimulus text
• Assignment 2: analytical commentary

Consists of two open book written exams and one non-exam assessment:

Paper 1: Voices in speech and writing (2hr 30mins, 40%)

Paper 2: Varieties in language and literature (2hr 30mins, 40%)

Non-exam assessment: Two pieces of original writing and one analytical commentary (20%)

You need to be qualified by both the relevant Admissions Score AND the predicted GCSE grade for each A level you apply for.

Please go to the College website to find the most up-to-date entry requirements for each A level that we offer: https://www.hillsroad.ac.uk/study-with-us/a-level-subjects

You can also visit www.hillsroad.ac.uk/apply to find out more about making your application.

Journalism, media, the arts, law, education and any other careers where analytical and writing skills are required.

For more information and to read the FAQs for this subject visit www.hillsroad.ac.uk/english-language-and-literature