English Language - A Level
If you interested in understanding how children acquire language, why there are so many regional dialects and how English is used in so many different ways in the modern world, this is the subject for you. In the process you will acquire a knowledge of specialist terminology and develop the linguistic skills needed to understand and explain contemporary and historical spoken and written English. You will also have the chance to write creatively, analysing and explaining the language choices you have made. Lansdowne students leave college with an enduring interest in the production and analysis of language.
AS Units 1 & 2
Categorising Texts - In this unit you will study three major topics of linguistic concern:
- Language and power
- Language and gender
- Language and technology
You will also study language frameworks so that you can identify the features of a range of text types. For example, we look at grammar, lexis (vocabulary), phonology (the sound of words) and semantics (what words mean). We will look at transcripts (the written form of spoken language), advertisements and comic strips.
Creating texts - Coursework: In this unit you will be required to write two pieces of original work, e.g. a piece of travel journalism; a guide to texting for novices; a speech delivered as a football captain. For each piece you will write a commentary exploring the writing process and examine existing models of your chosen genres and analyse their appropriate stylistic features.
A2 Units 3 & 4
Developing language - This is an examination-based unit that explores two major areas of linguistic interest:
- Language acquisition
- Language change
The first topic looks at how we learn to speak, read and write, and examines examples of children’s work. We will consider theories and evidence regarding how children acquire language – is this human skill an innate or learnt ability?
Investigating language: Students select a topic of personal interest, collecting data and establishing methods of enquiry. You might, for example, compare how different generations of the same family talk about a given topic. You will then compose a media text, like a newspaper or magazine article, based on the topic investigated.
How will I be assessed?
There is an equal combination of essay-based exams and coursework assignments in both AS and A2 years.
Do I need to have studied English before?
A good grade in GCSE English is preferred. You should also enjoy reading for pleasure!
Who will teach me?
Philip Carr has had experience as Head of Department for over thirty years, including in Saudi Arabia, where he taught English as a Foreign Language. He has a Cambridge degree and an MA. Philip has written teaching materials for the Welsh Joint Board, for whom he also examines. His involvement with language and literature has been fundamental and life-enhancing and he enjoys sharing this enthusiasm with students. Phillip is a published poet.
Which subjects complement English Language?
English Language combines well with a range of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences but also often a choice of Science students.
Which careers can English Language lead to?
English Language is a highly regarded A Level suited to those wishing to enter the arts, journalism, the media, publishing, law, teaching or business. In fact, because communication skills are so highly regarded and sought after by employers, English Language is an excellent basis for almost any career you can imagine.