Why should I study English?There are many reasons why English is compulsory, but the study of language and how to successfully use language to communicate ideas, debate and shape arguments are essential skills. You will look at what makes great writing in a range of fiction and non-fiction contexts, and have opportunities to produce your own creative, persuasive, argumentative and analytical writing throughout the course. We will also read some fascinating works of English literature, using these texts to consider what they say about our place in the world and actions within it. What texts will I study?
PLEASE NOTE: We constantly review our curriculum and therefore these texts may change. |
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Are there any field trips or enrichment opportunities?
As part of the course, we always try to see a suitable production of any text we study if possible, either in a theatre (which would be our preference) or a live stream.
Is there a higher and foundation tier?
No, there are no tiers of entry in English Language or Literature. Only one set of papers are produced each year for all pupils nationally, but these are written to ensure that grades 9-1 are accessible.
How much weighting is given to spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPAG)?
In English Language, 20% of all marks available across the two exam papers are based on SPAG. In English Literature, this is reduced to 4 marks on each exam paper.
How will I be assessed?
Your English lessons will see you studying for two GCSE qualifications, English Language and English Literature, and you will receive a separate grade for each subject.
The exam board for English is AQA and in both qualifications assessment is 100% exam based at the end of the course, with two papers for each subject (see below). In English Language, you will also need to prepare and perform a spoken language speech on video that is reported separately on your exam certificate as either a Distinction, Merit or Pass.
English Language Paper 1
- Explorations in creative writing
- Exam duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 80 marks – 50% of final GCSE grade
English Language Paper 2
- Viewpoints and perspectives in non-fiction
- Exam duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 80 marks – 50% of final GCSE grade
English Literature Paper 1
- Shakespeare and the 19th century novel
- Exam duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 64 marks – 40% of final GCSE grade
English Literature Paper 2
- Modern texts and poetry
- Exam duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes
- 96 marks – 60% of final GCSE grade
Will this course be good preparation for A Level?
This course will prepare you for further study in a range of A Levels and there are specific routes if your intentions are to continue with English: English Language, English Literature and a combined Literature and Language course. It will also give you the key analytical skills needed to study and interpret a range of texts in any subject and the writing skills to explain your findings..
What are the next steps?
English is a core subject but if you have any further questions about this course, please contact our Head of English, Mr Street, at
