Aims:
- To provide you with a framework for language study which will complement your skills in analysing Literature
- To help you develop the ability to write for a variety of specific purposes and audiences
- To develop your ability to analyse Literature and be aware of its relationship with other forms of written and spoken language
What will I study?
- A range of literary, non-literary and multimodal texts
- Theory of spoken language
- How Literature relates to other written and spoken language
How will I be assessed?
There are two modules at AS and two at A2. In each case, one module is assessed by written examinations and one by coursework.
Your AS examination will require a knowledge of how the spoken voice is represented both in literature and in transcripts of actual speech. For coursework you will study a literary text alongside a multimodal version of it (e.g. a film). You will also produce your own related multimodal text.
At A2 you will take a written paper on two related drama texts and produce a coursework folder consisting of an analysis of thematically linked non-literary texts together with a piece of creative writing with commentary.
Desirable requirements:
You should have an awareness of the importance of language, a curiosity about how writers create texts and a capacity to follow through your own ideas. You need to be able to write fluently and should enjoy reading a wider range of texts from Shakespeare to comic books.
How will I study?
You will work in groups and independently, carrying out your own research and writing in various genres.
You will attend university courses and lecture days. You will have a residential trip to Stratford-upon-Avon and the opportunity to attend an Arvon writing course.
Where will it lead?
Just about anywhere you want it to because it combines so well with other Advanced Level subjects: the Languages, Sciences, Arts and Humanities. It is useful for any Arts or Humanities course and could lead to work in a wide range of professions.
"I am currently studying Psychology, Geography and English with the aim of studying Childhood Studies at university. I enjoy the freedom and support of being in small class sizes as well as being a member of the school netball team and a volunteer at Bolton School Nursery. Sixth Form is both challenging and rewarding. I hope to pursue a career in Speech Therapy which stems from my passion for English Language."
Joanna