Course Entry Requirements

Grade 5 in GCSE English Language and a grade 5 in GCSE English Literature (if studied).

Introduction

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

What you will study

How ‘voice’ is crafted in both speech and writing
• A drama text and short literary, non-literary and digital texts
• Texts that provide opportunities to explore ways in which writers use language techniques and literary devices

You will also develop your own skills as a writer by producing fiction and non-fiction texts in response to a topic area.

Assessments

  • Three exams at the end of the second year (80%)
  • One piece of coursework (20%)

Course Support

The English Department takes pride in the level of support we give to our students:
• regular individual interviews with your own specific tutor
• staff enable you to achieve the best grades possible
• revision classes

Enrichment Activities

  • Theatre visits & trips to places of literary interest
  • Study days on specific exam modules
  • Creative writing workshops
  • Exam preparation delivered by Senior Examiners
  • Conferences on English Language
  • Enrichment Programme offering debating, personal creative writing and poetry group

Progression

English Language and Literature is an interesting and challenging A level as well as being excellent preparation for university or apprenticeships and your future career.

Career Opportunities

Careers include law, digital and creative, PR, marketing,  journalism, sales, teaching, management, administration, information management, publishing and careers in the public services.

Further Information

English Language & Literature Course Leaflet

Exam Board Course Specification

Videos

Click the link below to view our Student Introduction video

What Our Students Say

What I find best about Carmel is the willingness and availability of subject tutors to help you develop and achieve both short-term and long-term goals.

Studying English here has been a breath of fresh air as the texts we study are modern and easy to connect to modern society, making the subject as a whole feel fresh and captivating which helps when approaching deadlines and exams. My enjoyment of the subject has been furthered by English enrichment club wherein studying non-examined texts such as song lyrics and graphic novels have broadened my appreciation of the subject’s brevity and universal nature.

Overall what has impressed me most about my time at Carmel is the quality of teaching and the fact that each tutor is able to express their own distinct personalities and interests. Following my time at Carmel, I hope to gain a degree in teaching as it has been my goal since my first year in high school.

Jack Ellison