English Language A Level - Level 3
Overview
Whilst working towards an English language A Level, different variations of the English language will be analysed to develop your understanding and appreciation of English in all its contexts. You will be encouraged to explore how it is used to communicate through a wide variety of spoken and written texts, ranging from marketing and television to children’s books and gendered adult texts such as ‘lads mags’. There will also be a considerable focus on developing your own writing skills for specific audiences and purposes.
You will build on the skills and knowledge you have already gained at GCSE level. You will investigate and analyse a wide variety of texts from Instagram posts, Tweets, opinion pieces, spoken dialogue and magazine articles; amongst others. You will be able to develop your creative and analytical writing skills also.
What does it combine with?
What will I study?
Key topics will include children’s language development, language diversity and change, original writing and textual variations. Spoken and written texts using different dialects, idiolects and sociolects will be studied along with examining the process of globalization of English. As well as analysing spoken and written texts as part of your A Level study, you can also expect to develop your skills as a writer and take part in language research in an area that is of interest to you.
This course will allow you to reflect on topics such as:
- Why do we swear?
- What are the different types of swearing?
- Has political correctness meant we shouldn’t use terms like postman?
- How is the language of social media different from written texts?
- How have we learned to speak?
- Is grammar important?
Plus many more!
Entry requirements
You will need 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including:
- English Language (Grade 4)
- English Literature (Grade 4)
- Plus, three other GCSEs at grade 4.
If you have only studied literature and not language, you will need to discuss this with the subject tutor.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.
How long is the course?
2 years.
How will I be assessed?
This course is assessed primarily by examination scheduled for May/June at the end of the second year with some additional coursework assessment.
The variety of assessment styles used such as data analysis, creative writing and research-based investigative writing allows students to develop a wide range of skills. These skills include critical reading, data analysis, evaluation, the ability to develop and sustain arguments and a number of different writing skills which are invaluable for both further study and future employment.
There are only 2 exams and a coursework element worth 20%.
What does the course lead to?
Careers are often pursued as a journalist, author, editor, teacher, solicitor, public relations professional and more.
What can I progress onto?
Further study at university-level* in the subject, as well as linguistics, creative writing, history, politics, media, communications and journalism.
*As we are a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), you may qualify for various benefits should you choose to apply to NTU after completing your college course. This could include a Progress NTU offer, where you would receive an offer one grade below their standard offer. For instance, a typical offer for one of their courses might require 128 UCAS tariff points. With Progress NTU, your requirements would be 120 UCAS tariff points. For further details, please call us on 0808 100 3626 or discover more about this benefit here.
Career opportunities
How do I apply?
You don’t need to apply for each A Level course you are interested in individually.
Once we have received your application form we will invite you into college where we will be able to discuss every aspect of the courses you have chosen as well as any alternatives you may be considering.
You will also have the opportunity to visit the areas of the college used for your course choices.
Apply online