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English

Approach 

Both English Language and English Literature are organised into groups which are a variety of ability targeted groups and mixed ability groups with a range of independent and group learning built into the delivery of the curriculum. 

  

English Language 

Aims 

This course aims to develop students’ ability to: 

  • read a wide range of texts fluently and with good understanding 

  • read critically and to use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their own writing 

  • write effectively and coherently using Standard English 

  • use grammar correctly, punctuate and spell accurately 

  • acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology, and linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language 

  • understand the conventions of spoken language and use them effectively in a presentation 

 Topics 

Students will cover the following topics: 

  • creative/descriptive writing 

  • non-fiction writing 

  • reading fiction and non-fiction (including 19th century) 

  • non-examination assessment: spoken language 

English Literature 

Aims 

This course aims to develop students’ ability to: 

  • read a wide range of literature fluently and with good understanding, and make connections across their reading 

  • read in depth, critically and analytically, so as to be able to discuss and explain their understanding and ideas 

  • develop the habit of reading widely and often and appreciate the depth and influence of the English literary heritage 

  • write accurately, effectively and analytically about their reading, using Standard English 

  • acquire and use literary and linguistic terms to criticise and analyse what they read 

 

BooksTopics 

Students will cover the following topics: 

  • Shakespeare 

  • 19th century novel 

  • modern texts (post 1914 prose/drama) 

  • poetry 

Assessment 

It is expected that all students will take examinations in both AQA English Language and AQA English Literature at GCSE level. Both GCSEs are assessed by examinations taken in the summer of Year 11. English Language exams will include questions related to a previously unseen text; English Literature exams will be closed book on the set texts studied. 

  

Further Education and Career Opportunities 

Qualifications in English provide the baseline for most career opportunities as all higher education courses and employers seek good standards in literacy. Career opportunities specifically linked to English include research, journalism, publishing and media. 

 

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