THE CORE CURRICULUM – GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Aim of the course

The English Language course will enable students of all abilities to develop the skills they need to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts covering the 19th, 20th and 21st century time periods as well as to write clearly, coherently and accurately using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures.

The English Language course offers the attraction of two equally balanced papers, relating reading sources to the topic and theme of writing tasks. The reading sources act as stimuli for writing tasks, providing students with a clear route through each paper.

Student will sit 2 papers for English Language:

• Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing, looks at how writers use narrative and descriptive techniques to engage the interest of readers- worth 50% of the final qualification. 
• Paper 2: Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives, looks at how different writers present a similar topic over time- worth 50% of the final qualification.

Students are also required to undertake a Spoken Language Assessment where they are asked to deliver a formal presentation about a topic of their choice. This is required by the exam boards to be graded, recorded and a sample sent to AQA. All students are required to partake.

How will it be assessed?

Under the new GCSE Curriculum, the course will be assessed via 100% external examination. 

Please note the Spoken Language Assessment (Component 3) is assessed by the observing staff member and awarded Pass, Merit and Distinction, then verified by the exam board.

Possible careers associated with this subject

English is a key skill needed for all aspects of your adult life. For many of our students, the study of English Language also becomes a lifelong passion.

Successful study of English at GCSE level builds a strong foundation for A level and university study. An English degree can lead to careers in journalism, publishing, teaching, sales and marketing, broadcast media, television, and many more.

The study of English also nurtures a range of transferable skills which aid your studies of other subjects.