AS/A2 English Language

Why should I study English at Cardinal Newman College?
English is one of the most popular subject choices at Cardinal Newman. Our students' results match the best in the country, typically 65% grades A and B and 100% pass rate and there are three distinct syllabuses to choose from. While all three courses give you the chance to read and discuss a fantastic range of writing and the opportunity to write your own pieces, English Literature focuses on plays, poetry and novels, English Language looks at writing journalistic pieces, travel, fiction and spoken language and Combined English looks at elements of both.

You will also have the opportunity to take part in an exciting and extensive enrichment programme including a debating society, literary society and the College magazine. There are also visits to the theatre including the National Theatre, The Globe and the Lowry to see plays such as plays 'Much Ado About Nothing' and Chaucers 'The Canterbury Tales' as well as inspirational guest speakers and a myriad other enrichment opportunities to enjoy.
What skills will I need?
for this course you'll need:

· An English Language and English Literature GCSE at grade 'C' or above

· An interest in reading, discussing and analysing how words work in a wide variety of texts

· An interest in creating texts of your own for specific audiences and purposes

· A willingness to work hard and involve yourself in classroom activities
Studying English Language
This course looks at the many varieties of English that exist, both spoken and written. You'll look at how the English we speak differs according to our place in society; how our accents and dialects change according to our background, but also how our gender, occupation or status influence how we use English. You'll also examine how written English works in a whole range of texts: in stories, advertising, newspapers, magazines, and on the internet.

Finally, the course also develops your creative skills, as you are asked to produce texts of your own based upon your knowledge and understanding of how language works to suit different audiences and purposes.

The modules involved are:

· Module One: which looks at how language works in a wide variety of texts: adverts, articles, fiction, magazines, flyers, text messages, conversations, speeche... there's no limit to the types of text you can study! It goes on to look at the methods writers use to make readers react and think how they want them to; how writers use language to convey bias, prejudice and values as well as persuade audiences to share them.

· Module Two: is your coursework module; there are two pieces. The first requires you to submit a piece of creative writing such as a short story or script. The second piece is an investigation into an aspect of spoken language as used in the mass media. This could include an interview, a factual report or comedy routine.