English Language: AS/A2 Level

English Language: AS and A2 Level
This course studies how the English language is used in society. It involves the analysis of real language, both spoken and written, from linguistic, sociological and psychological perspectives.

This course is not to be confused with studying English Language at GCSE level as it is a completely different discipline.

Course details
AS

Unit One: Categorising Texts: explores both spoken and written language and how the intended audience and purpose affect how people write and speak. Texts will be taken from a variety of everyday sources, but will also include focussed study of how new technology affects language use, how men and women use language differently and how language is used to influence and manipulate. Unit Two: Creating Texts: this allows candidates to use their knowledge from Unit One to create their own texts. The two creative writing pieces should be accompanied by commentaries, detailing decisions made in the writing process. A2 Unit Three: Developing Language: this is divided into two topics: Child Language Acquisition, the nature and functions of language acquisition and social development of children from 0-11 years; and Language Change, the history of the English Language from Late Modern English (1700+) to the present day. Unit Four: Investigating Language: this allows candidates to carry out a language investigation on a topic of their choice. They will then be required to produce both a written exploration of the topic and a media piece based on the same topic.

How is it assessed?
Unit One: Categorising Texts: May exam Unit Two: Creating Texts: Coursework Unit Three: Developing Language: June exam Unit Four: Investigating Language: Coursework

Course duration
One year at AS level. One year at A2 level.

What do I need to study this subject?
Five GCSE grades A*-C, preferably including B's in English Literature and English Language.

Where can this lead me?
University courses in English Language, Linguistics or any of the writing or media fields. Some universities also ask for English Language when applying for science courses, particularly Medicine. Possible careers include: journalism, media, management, law, politics, teaching, and any career where communication is important.

What are the enrichment opportunities?
Creative writing workshops with guest authors and poets and a range of trips are available.