English language and literature

art & english design language & literature English Language & Literature - AS/A2

Exam Board: WJEC

The study of language casts light on the identity and purposes of writers and speakers.

English Literature is a heightened form of written language and this course develops your ability to explore some of the great poems, plays and novels in the tradition.

By combining these disciplines this course offers a range of analytical skills, enabling students to approach any text in English.

Is English Language & Literature for you?

You must have at least 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including at least a grade C in both English Language and English Literature.

You are interested in both English Language and English Literature and want to continue your study of both, looking at how each informs the other.

You would like to develop your own creative writing skills through original writing assignments.

You want to study novels, poetry and plays and want to focus more closely on how the writers use language to achieve different effects and convey ideas.

You wish to learn how to analyse the language of non-literary texts, ranging from advertisements to personal diaries.

You want to study spoken language – from everyday conversation to the language we hear on television or radio.

What will I learn?

AS Year Critical Reading of Literary & Non-Literary Texts You will study an anthology of pre-1900 poetry and a number of prose texts.

Creative Writing You will research and work to an externally provided brief. You will collect observations, experiment with media and techniques, develop ideas and create a final product within a timed period.

A2 Year

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through a combination of written examinations and coursework. 60% of your grade will be assessed through an exam, while the remaining 40% will be assessed through coursework.

What activities can I get involved in?

Analysing and Producing Performance Texts

The College has lots of exciting enrichment and C.V building opportunities including the chance to earn the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, learn a new skill, learn a language, join a club, take up or develop a sport or take on a new challenge. See the College Prospectus for further information about what is on offer.

You will write assignments based on two plays studied in class, and create an original ‘performance text’.

Comparative Textual Analysis & Review You will study a set book and learn how to analyse different texts.

Where does it lead?

Employers greatly value the skills acquired while English Language and Literature which include critical thinking, analysis, and communication. You will also sharpen your writing and independent thinking skills and develop the ability to assimilate and evaluate relevant information in constructing an argument.

Some students may choose to study English courses at University. The skills you will develop, including analysis and the ability to think and communicate clearly make this course relevant to a wide variety of courses and future careers, including public administration, the civil service, advertising, journalism, publishing, education, legal work, business, banking and retail, human resources, charities and campaigning.

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tel: 0151 652 5575 email: enrol@bsfc.ac.uk

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