English Language and Literature
Why Study English Language & Literature?
English Language and Literature students explore the art of expressing ideas, studying writers from Shakespeare to the present day, in both literary and non-literary texts. Students also compose their own creative writing.
The range of literary and non-literary study includes prose fiction, drama, poetry, linguistics and literary non-fiction. The course encompasses all aspects of English study, allowing students to appreciate both the technical and the artistic elements of a diverse range of texts.
Why our students like this course
‘Studying English has been one of the most enjoyable experiences of my A levels…’
'Studying English is revelatory: English Language and Literature develops your skills as a writer, and as a reader. You examine texts for deeper themes, meanings and context while closely analysing the texts and speech transcripts right down to the last pronoun and micropause.'
'The teachers are fantastic, supportive and even better, they know their stuff. Studying English has been one of the most enjoyable experiences of my A levels and I would recommend every aspect of this course.'
Entry Requirements
Minimum Grade 5 in GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature
Course Structure
Exam Board: WJEC/Eduqas
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Y.12 |
Teacher 1 |
Teacher 2 |
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Aut. |
The novel You will study a classic novel. Depending on which class you are in, this novel will be either Wuthering Heights (by Charlotte Bronte) or Things Fall Apart (by Chinua Achibe). You will explore the various techniques the writer has used to craft their novel e.g. how the writer develops the plot, presents characters, uses setting, builds tension and employs narrative perspective. You will also use the novel as a springboard to practice your own creative writing. |
Anthology of non-fiction texts You will study a range of non-fiction texts from the OCR anthology which date from the 17th century to the present day. The anthology includes a wide range of text types such as speeches, diary entries, interviews and podcasts. You will compare these anthology texts with other non-fiction texts. As well as analysing and exploring texts from the anthology, there will be many opportunities for you to practice your own non-fiction creative writing skills. |
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Spr. |
Poetry You will study a collection of poems. Depending on which class you are in, you will study the poems of either William Blake or Emily Dickinson. |
Othello You will study Shakespeare’s famous play, Othello, analysing its language, themes, characters and historical context. |
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Sum. |
NEA (coursework – non-fiction creative writing) You will practice writing a range of non-fiction creative writing and eventually produce your own piece of coursework. This piece of writing could be in the form of a speech, diary entry, memoir, letter etc. |
NEA (coursework – analytical essay) As a class, you will read a set 21st century non-fiction text. Depending on your teacher, this text is likely to be Educated (by Tara Westover) or Diary of a Young Naturalist (by Dara McAnulty). Having studied this text, you will then choose another text which links to your set text. Ultimately, you will produce an analytical essay comparing the two texts. |
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Y.13 |
Teacher 1 |
Teacher 2 |
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Aut. |
You will continue with your NEA (coursework). |
You will continue with your NEA (coursework). |
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Spr. |
Creative Writing (fiction) You will practice producing your own creative writing based on a storyline provided for you. Having produced a piece of creative writing, you will then be required to write a commentary on your work, evaluating what you feel was successful or less successful about your work.
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Anthology of non-fiction texts You will return to the anthology and study any texts not covered in Year 12.
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| Sum. |
You will prepare for all sections of the exams. |
You will prepare for all sections of the exam. |
Where does this subject lead me?
The English Language and Literature course is an ideal preparation for Languages, Law, Psychology, Journalism, Linguistics and other pathways involving precise thinking and interpretation.
Further Advice
- example university degree courses and careers leading from this subject
- general advice on applying for University / UCAS
You can watch a great series of videos of people who are working in jobs that use English by visiting .
For example university courses and careers that can lead from this subject click here.
Creative Industries: explore a wide selection of creative careers
Apprenticeship courses: Info on what an apprenticeship is and courses available
How is it Assessed?
The course is split into four components, three external examinations and one internally assessed coursework unit.
The coursework has two elements:
- The students carry out a comparative analysis of genre fiction.
- The students show a mastery of creative writing skills, creativity, accuracy and style, both literary and non-literary texts are created.
Exam Board: EDUQAS
Contact a Teacher
If you have any subject specific questions that you'd like to ask. You are very welcome to contact the relevant Head of Subject. To find their email address click on Teaching Staff. For general enquiries, contact the 6th Form Team.