GSO Test

English Language and Literature

 

Awarding Body AQA
Assessment Structure

80% examination (at the end of the course)

20% NEA

Minimum entry requirement
  • NBP16C level 3 entry requirements
  • GCSE (4-5) in English Language and Literature (any combination)

 

Why should I study the COMBINED course?

 Because it uniquely combines two English subjects, language and literature and is designed to appeal to students who enjoy the study of both. The two-year course gives you a chance to develop your close analysis skills of a range of texts - both fiction and non-fiction. This is an incredibly versatile and flexible A level which equips you with transferable skills, gives you a 21st century skill set for an ever changing world, insists on Intellectual and creative challenge and is well respected by all universities (offering lots of different progression routes at degree and higher apprenticeship level).

What will students learn?

We study AQA English language and literature where, in addition to the study of novels, poetry and plays, we study non-fiction spoken and written texts. You will undoubtedly develop skills of reading, writing and analysing texts. 


Paper 1 (TELLING STORIES): You will study an anthology filled with a range of non-fiction and non-literary texts all about the city of Paris. You will also study a 20th century novel and the poetry of Carol Ann Duffy - exploring a range of contemporary themes relating to diversity, identity and relationships.

 

Paper 2 EXPLORING CONFLICT: This unit focuses on how language can create conflict between people and their societies. Students will write a critical reflection on the processes and outcomes involved in creative writing, and study drama texts that explore different types of conflict, ranging from within a household to wider national and international society.

Paper 3 NEA (coursework): This element allows you to investigate an area of your choice and equips you with the independent research skills that are vital for further study and employment in related fields. Here you really get a chance to explore an area or society (or an individual) that interests you - from political activists to social media influencers! 

How will I learn?

The course encourages a range of learning experiences, including group discussions, presentations and independent study. Students will also have the opportunity to take part in enrichment sessions.

Who is this course for?

This is a course for those of you who love to read and write, and would like to develop more sophisticated responses to a wide range of texts and genres. It is very much for those who want to keep their options open and have a creative and critical mind.

What can I do with my qualification?

English language and literature is a highly regarded A level because it shows that you can communicate clearly and have an understanding of the importance and power of language. This A level is recognised and valued by higher education institutions and by employers. Students have gone on to careers in law, health and medicine, commerce and industry, marketing, politics and international relations, general management, as well as to more predictable areas like journalism, publishing, the media, education, theatre and public relations.

What do students say?

“The A level course is entirely different to GCSE. It is enjoyable and teaches lots of different skills.”  

“I just couldn’t decide on which English A level so with this you get the best of both worlds; literature and language!” 

“ I love reading. I love to analyse. I love to write. I love to investigate. This course offered me all of these experiences“