English Language & Literature
English Language and Literature is an exciting and intellectually rich A Level that integrates the study of a wide range of English components. It encourages students to explore how writers use language to create meaning in both literary and non-literary texts.
Course content
The course covers three main areas. Voices in Speech and Writing involves the study of an Edexcel anthology of 20 fiction and non-fiction texts across genres such as blogs, articles, film scripts and interviews, the exploration of voice, persona, audience and purpose, the study of 'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams, and analysis of how cultural and social context affects meaning. Varieties in Language and Literature involves the study of 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald and 'Othello' by William Shakespeare, with a thematic focus on society and the individual, and independent research into non-fiction texts. The Non-Exam Assessment involves the independent selection of source texts and the production of original fiction and non-fiction writing with a reflective commentary.
Entry requirements and skills
GCSE Grade 6 and above in both English Language and English Literature. The course suits students interested in all aspects of English, including literary and linguistic analysis and creative writing.
Assessment
Assessment is through two written papers and a coursework component. Paper 1, Voices in Speech and Writing, is a 2 hour 30 minute written exam (40%) with a comparative essay on anthology texts and an essay response to 'A Streetcar Named Desire'. Paper 2, Varieties in Language and Literature, is a 2 hour 30 minute written exam (40%) with a comparative essay on 'The Great Gatsby' and 'Othello' and a response to an unseen non-fiction extract. The Non-Examined Assessment, Original Writing, is coursework worth 20%, comprising two original pieces (one fiction, one non-fiction) with a reflective commentary, totalling 2,500 to 3,000 words.
Enrichment
The department offers trips and co-curricular activities such as the Shakespeare and Classical Literature Club, Public Speaking and Debating, and Creative Writing clubs.
Future pathways
The course builds highly transferable skills in analysis, interpretation, independent research and creative expression, providing an excellent foundation for further study in English, creative writing, media, journalism, law, education, politics and a wide range of careers where communication and critical thinking are essential.
A Level English Language & Literature FAQs
What exam board is A Level English Language & Literature?
The course follows the Edexcel English Language and Literature specification (9EL0).
What are the entry requirements for A Level English Language & Literature?
Students need a GCSE Grade 6 or above in both English Language and English Literature. The course suits students interested in literary and linguistic analysis as well as creative writing.
What texts are studied in A Level English Language & Literature?
Set texts include 'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams, 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald and 'Othello' by William Shakespeare, alongside an Edexcel anthology of 20 fiction and non-fiction texts.
How is A Level English Language & Literature assessed?
Assessment is through two written papers, each 2 hours 30 minutes and worth 40%, plus a coursework component worth 20%. The coursework comprises two original writing pieces with a reflective commentary, totalling 2,500 to 3,000 words.
What enrichment opportunities are there?
The department offers trips and clubs including the Shakespeare and Classical Literature Club, Public Speaking and Debating, and Creative Writing clubs.
What can A Level English Language & Literature lead to?
The course provides an excellent foundation for further study in English, creative writing, media, journalism, law, education and politics, and for careers where communication and critical thinking are essential.