During Years 10 and 11, you will study English Language. The course develops skills you have already been learning and practising throughout Years 7 to 9.
What the course involves
Throughout the course you will be developing your skills at reading, writing and speaking. You will study a range of 19th Century fiction and non-fiction texts, often concurrently with the Literature texts, to build your confidence at interpreting a range of texts. You will also be developing your craft as a writer throughout KS4 — in both creative writing and in transactional writing.
You will also be developing your speaking skills in a range of contexts: discussions, presentations and debates. This is to build key employment skills for the future and build your confidence.
The course is assessed in two examinations.
Paper 1 is worth 40% of the overall grade and tests your ability to decode and analyse an unseen 19th Century text and also to create a piece of narrative writing using a title as stimulus.
Paper 2 is worth 60% and asks you to analyse and compare two non-fiction texts and also write for a transactional purpose.
A separate mark is awarded for spoken language.
The English department has created a range of revision resources to support the development of your reading and writing skills; these are available from the ‘help yourself’ revision boards located in the department. An official Edexcel revision guide and workbook are available for purchase through ParentPay.
Career opportunities
For any path you wish to take you will be expected by employers to have essential English skills. These will be demonstrated through your GCSE English Language qualification. English qualifications are vital if you want to start an apprenticeship, work in any area of the customer service industry or if you wish to continue your education.
Post-16 opportunities
A good pass 5 at GCSE English Language is vital for further study of the subject at A Level; equally, a strong English Language GCSE supports students who wish to study Law and Journalism at A Level.