Course Type

A-Level

Exam Board

AQA

Assessment Type

Exam (80%) and Coursework (20%)

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade 5 or above in different subjects including Maths and at least a grade 5 in either English Language or Literature GCSE

Course Overview

Language Variation   

This component looks at how we use language to communicate our personal and social identities and how language varies depending on our choices of whether we speak or write and with whom we are communicating.

We also explore how English has changed over time and why this happens. We look at the idea of English as a ‘World Language’ and the power it has on the world stage.  

Child Language  

Have you ever wondered how children start to talk and how they learn to read and write? 

This component looks at child language development and the fascinating theories that try to understand why children are better at learning language than adults, as well as the obstacles they have to overcome to become fluent speakers and writers.  

Coursework  

Investigating Language  

This unit is a chance for you to develop into a linguist. 

You will have the opportunity to investigate an area of language that interests you personally: sports commentaries/gender in magazines/the language of reality TV shows. You will choose your area of interest and the questions you want to research within it. Universities have a high regard for this area of the course as it shows your ability to study independently.  

Crafting Language  

You will produce some original writing and a commentary which allows you to explore your own language use. This is your chance to express yourself!   

You will learn how to produce and present texts like professionals.   

Where will it lead?

This course will open up lots of options in Higher Education as it is relevant to many degree subjects. Students who have studied this subject have gone on to work in journalism, marketing, publishing, media, teaching and law.