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English Language

Title & Level: AS/A Level English Language (Level 3)

Introduction
During this course you will become a language detective, searching for linguistic clues in speech and writing, gathering evidence and presenting your case with conviction and flair. You will learn to look at language with new eyes and hear it with new ears - as well as growing as a writer with opportunities to write in a variety of styles. You will be encouraged to produce real material, test it on your target audience and then redraft it until it reaches a professional standard.

Entry requirements
Standard entry requirements, including grade A* to B in GCSE English. You should enjoy both creative writing and the analysis of language in use.

Duration
The AS Level is a one year course and the A Level is a two year course. Enrolment is only in September.

Career Prospects/Progression
This course prepares students for degree courses in Linguistics, English Language, Creative Writing, Speech Therapy, Media and Education.

How will I be assessed?
40% coursework and 60% exams.

Course Content/units
Introduction to the Study of Language
You will study the language we use in everyday life and learn how people make choices about how to express themselves. You will be introduced to a linguistic framework that will enable you to understand and describe language.

Language and Social Contexts
You will consider the ways in which our use of language is influenced by those around us and by the different roles we play.

• Language and Gender: the differences between how men and women communicate
• Language and Technology:  how advances in technology change the way we use language.
• Language and Power: how we can influence others through our language choices.

Original Writing
You will learn to write in a variety of styles for different purposes: entertaining, informative and persuasive. For instance, you might produce a magazine article, or a radio play, an advertising pack or a web site. You are usually free to choose your own subject. Throughout the year we encourage you to produce real material, test it on the target audience and then redraft until it is successful. The best of your writing will form the coursework folder you submit for assessment.

Investigating Language
You will carry out a research project of your own choice. In the past students have looked at topics like football commentary, conversations in soap opera and real life, advertising slogans and children’s writing.

Language Development
This module covers two major linguistic topics:

•    How children learn to talk.
•    How language changes with time.

Course expenses
AQA textbook - £15.99 each year.

Awarding Body
AQA

What next?
For further information, advice and to enrol, please call our Customer Liaison Team on 01935 423921