English Language

You will take TWO separate GCSEs to gain a qualification in both subjects. However, at WHS, the teaching of the English and English Literature courses is integrated.

This course allows you to become astute, perceptive readers and powerfully skilled writers. In a society in which we are increasingly bombarded with information, the ability to analyse texts shrewdly is a vital skill, as is the ability to confidently wield your pen to craft your own ideas and responses.

EXAM PAPER 1 (50%): Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing

This exam has a mixture of short and long answer questions relating to the linguistic and structural devices in an unseen fiction text from 20th or 21st century. You will also write a creative piece, using skills to engage the reader.

EXAM PAPER 2 (50%): Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives

This exam also has a mixture of short and long answer questions on two unseen texts, one from the 20th or 21st century, and one from the 19th century, and in your responses you will consider how the writers powerfully convey their ideas through their craft. There is also a transactional writing question which tests your ability to write on demand in different styles and for different audiences.

NON-EXAM ASSESSMENT (separated endorsement): Spoken Language

In this component, which acts as a complementary qualification, you will give a short speech and respond to questions from your teachers and classmates. Here, you will impress us with your ability to convey important ideas and persuade us of your points of view about big topics.