Are you looking for a lively, thought-provoking and stimulating course where you’ll develop your opinions whilst also developing your own creativity? Then we’d recommend that you take a look at our A Level English Language and Literature course. Studying A Level English Language and Literature is an exciting opportunity to study novels, poetry and plays, along with the study of non-fiction, spoken and written texts to understand the concerns of the writers at that time, and the methods they use to create a reaction from their audience. This broad course also provides you with the opportunity to write creatively.
You'll need to meet the entry criteria for your chosen pathway.
For further information on the pathways, please click here.
The topics you study will build on your GCSE studies and expand your ability to discuss and develop your love of language and literature.
Topics you will study include:
- Studying texts such as The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold and Shakespeare’s Othello
- Exploring poetry including selected poems by Carol Ann Duffy
- A creative writing project
Educate, Enrich, Enlighten
Your lessons involve plenty of discussion, debate and working with others. You’ll hone your debate skills, work on your communication skills, written techniques and ultimately broaden your horizons. During your lessons you will enjoy exploring writers’ techniques, some sociolinguistic theory and a range of genres of texts. Our teachers are all subject specialists, and through engaging lessons, you will explore new ideas and challenge your own thinking.
Outside of the classroom you’ll enjoy some outstanding experiences too, such as regular theatre trips. You may also choose to write for our College publications.
You’ll gain valuable knowledge and skills throughout your time on the course through a wide range of enrichment opportunities, combining your classroom learning with trips and visits. Our students have benefitted from:
- Writing for the College publication
- Taking part in national competitions such as Poetry by Heart
- Attending the HNC Book Club
- Taking part in Debate Club
- Having short stories published in national anthologies via Young Writers
- Visiting the English Department at the University of Huddersfield
This course is assessed via examinations (80%) and coursework (20%).
English Language and Literature is a traditional subject and is accepted by a huge range of degree courses. Of course, this subject has a natural link to careers such as Journalism, Teaching, Advertising, Human Resources, or even Law.
It is valued highly by universities and employers as it develops a wide range of transferable skills including the ability to debate and articulate your views.
What does this course go well with or what may you like?
News From the Department
Good to Know
A Level English Language and Literature is one of the top five most popular A Levels choices and the skills developed in this course will be valuable in a range of careers and degrees.
Where Are They Now?
Courtney Bostock
Law at the University of York
