A Level English Language & Literature

A Level English Language & Literature is a popular course that links the skills of both English Language and English Literature study. It will appeal to students who have enjoyed both aspects at GCSE and wish to continue studying them in a broader and more in-depth manner.

During the two years, you will explore how ‘voice’ is crafted in both speech and writing. Focusing on a drama text (All My Sons) and a range of short literary, non-literary and digital texts. You will also study texts that give you the opportunity to explore the ways in which different writers use language techniques and literary devices. Also on how writers use these to convey their thoughts or ideas on a theme in literary and non-fiction writing. For example, you will analyse the techniques Fitzgerald uses to explore ‘Society and the Individual’ in ‘The Great Gatsby’.

As well as reading and analysing texts written by other people, you will also be given the opportunity to develop your own skills as a writer. By producing fiction and a non-fiction text in response to a topic area, such as ‘Crossing Boundaries’. You will also undertake wider reading to further your understanding of texts from a range of genres and time periods.

Where does an A Level English Language & Literature course lead?

English subjects are challenging, but are an excellent preparation both for university and your future career. Obvious careers include journalism, sales, teaching, management, administration, information management, publishing and careers in the public services.