English Language – A-level

English Language A-level is very different from what you may be used to in your GCSE studies.  It involves the linguistic analysis of a range of different types of spoken and written texts.  This A-level complements many other subjects and can help in a range of careers such as teaching and journalism.

You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4.

A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.

It is assumed that students enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.

First year:

• Close linguistic analysis of a wide range of authentic texts
• Social varieties of English

Second year:

• Original writing for a ‘real world’ purpose (coursework)
• Research into a language area of individual interest (coursework)
• Analysis of how children acquire language
• How English changes over time

This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.

N/A

The course will be assessed via two 2.5 hour written examinations at the end of the second year.  Each paper is worth 40% of the mark (i.e. 80% in total).

A coursework project in the second year – worth 20% of the mark – will be on independent research into a chosen area of language and will include a piece of original writing.

This qualification is a useful foundation for a course in higher education or for employment.  Career prospects include roles in teaching, advertising, media, recruitment consultancy, publishing, human resources, journalism and secretarial work.

For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk