English Language A Level

Course code: FTB012

School of Humanities & Science

The Programme

This course is about studying how language works and why people use language in the way they do. You will study a wide range of texts, fiction and non-fiction, and learn how to analyse them. You will look at a variety of language topics and learn how to investigate language issues and evaluate these issues in the light of current research and linguistic theories. Students enjoy the variety of this course and the opportunity to explore their own writing interests in the coursework tasks. During your AS Level year you will study interesting language topics such as language and gender, language and technology and language and power. Your coursework is based on a folder of your own writing where you will write for a variety of audiences and purposes. Your own writing is accompanied by a commentary where you explain the language choices you have made.

When you progress to the A2 Level course you will study the history of the language and how children acquire speech and writing. You will carry out a detailed linguistic investigation on a topic of your own choice and produce a short creative media piece that relates to your investigation.

The Programme Content

The AS Level course is assessed by coursework (40%) and final exam (60%). Your portfolio of coursework will consist of two pieces of writing for different audiences and purposes with an accompanying commentary which discusses your language choices. The exam has two questions. The first asks you to consider a variety of texts which could range from Shakespeare to a shopping list and consider different criteria for grouping them. In the second question you have a choice of whether to answer an essay question on Language and Power, Language and Gender or Language and Technology. This is a course which appeals to students who enjoy creative writing and are interested in contemporary ideas about how our lanaguage works. Our A2 Level students always pass! 08/09 - 100%; 09/10 - 100%; 10/11 - 100%. English Language is a subject which complements many other A level subjects as it will improve your skills in analysing texts, communicating ideas and expressing your point of view.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language.

Costs

You will be expected to buy the relevant textbook for this course which costs approximately £15.

Venue

Barnstaple, Main Site

Progression

English is a subject which is highly regarded everywhere. There are many career opportunities for those of you that wish to pursue the subject at a higher level. Students in the past have gone on to study linguistics, speech therapy and English Language. An A Level in English Language would benefit you if you were considering a career in teaching, the media or journalism.

Length of Study

AS Level one year, A Level two years.

Academic Year

This course starts in the 2013 / 2014 academic year.