English Language and Literature A Level

You will develop your enjoyment and interest in literary and non-literary texts and broaden your knowledge and understanding of a wide range of writing across the ages. English Language and Literature is a popular core subject and you will be able to combine it with any other mix of subjects. You will develop important skills such as critical analysis and writing skills which are highly valued by universities and by your future employer.

English is a subject for students who take pleasure in reading both journalistic and literary texts. If you enjoy reading, this will probably be your favourite subject.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of 38 points for your average GCSE score, Mathematics, English Language and English Literature at grades A*-C plus at least two other GCSEs from our specified range of GCSE subjects and a satisfactory reference.

International Entry Requirements
IELTS 5.5, High School Certificate Grade C or above (or equivalent)

Content

Four units are examined, two for the AS and two more for the full A Level. The AS provides a thorough foundation in the subject. You will examine three main texts covering prose and drama and a variety of non-literary texts from all genres. The emphasis in the first year is on exploring speech, analysing a writer’s techniques and producing your own texts in a creative way. In the second year you will study three further texts, and the emphasis will be on comparing texts and creating new texts. As part of this, you will complete independent study on two texts for a coursework assessment. You will broaden and develop your intellectual skills in this subject; you will learn how to communicate clearly and write fluently, and you will discuss and read a variety of texts. You will be encouraged to participate in active debate about the texts and to develop an appreciation of the skills used to create effective writing.

Course Duration

The A level qualification ia a full-time course achieved over a two year period. In the first year you study the AS modules and in the second year you will study the A2 modules. The year begins in September and runs through to the beginning of July.

Progression

English A Levels can lead to many different opportunities in the Arts and Humanities in Higher Education. This is an ideal option to choose for a broad and balanced introduction to university study.

Additional Information

The exam board is AQA. The Specification is English Language and Literature A 2720. You can find more information at www.aqa.org.uk

There is one coursework unit in the second year of the course, which is 40% of the A2 marks.

You will want to have your own copies of set texts in order to write your own notes and comments in them; their cost is modest. You will also have the opportunity to take part in theatre visits and conferences that we know will enrich your enjoyment of the subject.

Admissions

Pleae apply for our A level course (minimum three subjects) on-line through our website, www.kingston-college.ac.uk or by following the link to the right of this page.