English Language & Literature

Overview
If you are passionate about reading and discussing Literature, consider again the single A Level Literature course, which will be much closer in nature to the course you studied at GCSE. The really important thing to understand before you choose a Language and Literature combined course is that the Language aspects of the course are not at all similar with those you studied at GCSE. If you have an analytical mind and wish to enhance your technical writing skills as well as enjoy good literature, this course may well suit you. You will acquire an excellent understanding of grammar and learn a whole range of new terms and critical techniques on this course. For example, you will look at the use of spoken language in prose texts and be able to talk about the semantic impact of noun phrase use in a renaissance play. You will be asked to create texts designed to be multimodal (making use of two modes of communication writing, spoken language, image, sound), analytical essays and original writing.

Course Outline
AS Level
Unit F671: Speaking Voices (Exam) - The focus of this unit is on the representation of individual voices that create meaning in texts. Candidates study two prose fiction texts. Study of the two set texts together will enable you to gain an understanding of the genre of prose fiction and to gain experience in applying elements from combined linguistic and literary study.
Unit F672: Changing Texts (Coursework) - The focus for this unit is the study of multimodal texts, ie texts that combine different modes of communication (speech, writing, sound, image) to create meaning. You will be able to apply both analytical and creative techniques to explore ways in which literary texts are constantly being reinvented and reinterpreted for different audiences and purposes. Through writing a commentary on your text production, you will demonstrate your understanding of the range of factors – linguistic, literary, presentational, cultural – that can influence meanings and effects. The study of a substantial written text will focus this coursework .

A2 Level
Unit F673: Dramatic Voices  (Exam) - The focus of this unit is on the changing representation of power relationships through the genre of drama and on related issues of context and critical judgement. You will study two drama texts as a pair, linked by theme, approach or setting. One will be a pre-1800 text and one a modern text, both chosen from the set list.
Unit F674: Connections across Texts (Coursework ) - The focus of this unit is the study of texts in relation to notions of value, status and classification. You will study one substantial written text from any genre selected by your teacher. This substantial text is one that falls outside of the accepted literary canon, but which, nonetheless, is regarded as influential, or culturally significant. This substantial text forms the starting point for a study that will include other texts in its scope, one of which is a spoken language text and one of which is non-literary. You will produce an analytical essay comparing the texts and an original writing piece that arises from your study.

Assessment
Coursework (40%)
Examination (60%)
Examining Board – OCR.

Special Entry Requirements
GCSE English Language C (B preferred).
GCSE English Literature C (B preferred)

Prohibited Options
Students can not take another A Level English course whilst doing this A Level. You are, however, able to participate in the Creative Writing enrichment course.

Career and Progression Opportunities
This course is suitable for progression to any English course at university and combines well with a wide variety of other subjects.

Other Information
A lot of our work is done in small groups and through discussion sessions. There will be essay work as well as a variety of creative tasks. You will be expected to read independently and complete the required preparation and exercises outside of lesson time. The English department does organise relevant theatre trips when possible and we have, in the past, had visiting speakers.

This information is correct for September 2012 entry.