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English Language

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English Language is a popular subject here and our students study a range of fascinating topics such as language and gender, regional variation, the language of social groups, and child language acquisition.

You will learn to analyse the ways in which language is used by different groups in the real world. We also explore a range of written and spoken texts, learning to understand the complicated process by which texts ‘work’, considering not only the purpose, genre and audience but also the society in which a text was written and the linguistic features used. 

Over recent years, the results students have achieved have been fantastic. This is down to the hard work and dedication from specialist staff and the passion and enthusiasm shown by students. We also make sure that the choice of topic for your language investigation – which is your coursework – is up to you: we give you guidance but will encourage you to pursue the area of English Language which interests you the most.

Entry Criteria

6 in GCSE English Language

Companion Subjects

English Literature

Media Studies

History

Law

Religious Studies

Sociology

Career Paths

  • Publishing

  • Teaching

  • Journalism

  • Marketing

  • Law

  • Copy Writing

  • Research

  • Language Therapy 

Subject Intent

A-Level English Language is all about discovering how language works in the real world. Whether we’re analysing how teenagers text, how newspapers persuade us, or how people express identity and power—this course encourages students to be curious, critical, and creative.
It builds strong skills in analysis, argument, research, and writing—perfect for university, apprenticeships, or careers where communication matters (which is just about all of them!). We foster a love of language in all its forms—spoken, written, digital, and personal.

Course Overview

Year 12 (AS foundations)

  • Language and the Individual – how meanings are shaped in texts; exploring representation
  • Language Varieties – regional and social diversity; attitudes to accents and dialects
  • Original writing – producing your own texts for a real-world audience and purpose
  • Key skills include: linguistic frameworks, terminology, close analysis, and developing interpretations

Year 13 (A-Level)

  • Language, the Individual and Society – advanced textual analysis with context and theory
  • Language Diversity and Change – gender, ethnicity, occupation, technology, and how English evolves
  • Language Discourses – exploring debates about language use and attitudes in the media
  • NEA (Non-Exam Assessment):
    • Independent Language Investigation (2,000 words)
    • Original Writing with Commentary (750 + 750 words)
      Students design and carry out their own research using real-world data—like transcripts, websites, interviews or texts.

Assessment

Each paper includes data analysis, discursive essays, and extended responses. The NEA offers freedom to explore your own interests in language.

Component 1

Paper 1: Language, the Individual and Society

2h 30m exam

100 Marks
40%

Component 2

Paper 2: Language Diversity and Change

2h 30m exam

100 Marks

40%

NEA: Coursework portfolio

2 tasks

50 Marks
20%

Homework & Independent Study

Students complete regular analytical practice, wider reading (from sociolinguistic research to contemporary media), and research notes for NEA preparation.
You’ll also build confidence by engaging with real-world texts—tweets, transcripts, leaflets, journalism, blogs—and creating your own writing.

Enrichment Opportunities

  • Workshops on forensic linguistics, political speeches, or gender and language
  • Guest speakers from journalism, linguistics, media, or publishing
  • Trips to museums, theatre, or university linguistics departments
  • Student-led discussion groups and writing clubs
  • Extension tasks and reading for those considering English at university

Where Can English Language Take You?

This is a flexible, future-proof course. The analytical and communication skills developed open doors to careers in journalism, publishing, marketing, law, linguistics, speech therapy, teaching, and more.
It’s also excellent preparation for further study in English, humanities, social sciences, or creative fields.

Curriculum Content

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