Full Time AS/A2 English Language and Literature

English Language and Literature AS/A2

Entry Requirements
Preferably a GCSE English grade B or above.

Course content
This course provides an attractive option for students wishing to take the study of language as well as literature to Advanced level. Combining advanced reading and writing skills with the study of classic and modern set texts and linguistics, this is a good choice for those wanting a broad combination but a real challenge in both areas, and will extensively develop students language skills and capacity for clear argument and expression.
AS: Year 1
Unit 1: You will be introduced to the principles of integrated literacy and linguistic analysis and develop the ability to analyse texts using appropriate terminology to unlock meaning. You will also learn how to control style and tone in your own writing.
Unit 2: You will be introduced to the principles of the analysis of speech in a variety of situations. You will learn how to compare different kinds of spoken texts and explore how speech is represented in both literacy texts, such as novels or plays and in non-literacy texts, for example, political speeches or transcribed conversations.
A2: Year 2
Unit 3: You will learn how to compare the different techniques writers use to produce different effects by studying a broad range of non-fiction texts. You will also further your own ability to write varying style and tone to suit audience and purpose in a range of contexts.
Unit 4: You will draw on your knowledge of the whole course in order to produce a comparative essay on two literary texts, under the guidance of a member of the English Department.

How Will I Be Assessed?
Unit 1: Integrated Analysis and Text Production - A written paper with two questions lasting 1 hour 30 minutes
Unit 2: Analysing Speech and its Representation - A written paper with two questions lasting 1 hour 30 minutes
Unit 3: Comparative Analysis and Text Adaptation - A written paper with two questions lasting 2 hours 30 minutes
Unit 4: Comparative Analysis through Independent Study - A coursework essay of 1500-2500 words

What Could I Do Next?
The course is well recognised for higher education and careers, providing a strong all-round qualification in English.

Are There Any Special Expenses?
The Department provides all general and coursework texts but students are expected to purchase their own set texts to enable them to make personal notes in them for the exams.