English Language and Linguistics
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Examination Board: Eduqas Qualification: A level Teacher Contact: Mrs Morris and Mr Roberts
Entry Requirements: Grade 6 or above in either GCSE English Literature or Language.
What will I study? The A level course covers a broad range of topics, exploring the ways in which language shapes the world around us and is used in everyday life. The course is comprised of four components, studied over two years: Component 1: Language Concepts and Issues (2-hour written examination – 30% of qualification) Section A: Analysis of Spoken Language In this unit we explore the most frequent way language is used, for verbal communication. You will learn how to analyse transcripts and comment on the effects created by different language features. In the examination you will answer one question requiring the analysis of two transcripts based on real recordings, exploring and analysing the ways in which context affects language use. Section B: Language Issues Three language topic areas are the focus of this unit: Exploring accent and dialect; language and power; and child language acquisition. These cover topics such as how we first learn to speak and communicate, how politicians and institutions use language to obtain or maintain power, and This section is based on the study of unseen written texts from different periods, linked by genre. We look at the origins of the English language, how it has evolved over time, and how meaning and genre are inseparable. For the examination there will be one multi-part question and one essay question analysing language change over time. Section B: English in the 21st century Section B is based on the study of the ways in which language is used distinctively in the 21st century. You will learn how language is evolving to reflect technological and cultural change in the world today. In the examination you will answer one question based on a variety of short texts, often modern examples of communication such as YouTube comments or tweets. the ways in which language is changing currently. Component 2: Language Change Over Time (2 hours 15 minutes written examination – 30% of qualification) Section A: Language Change Over Time
Component 3: Creative and Critical Use of Language (1 hour 45 minutes written examination – 20% of qualification) In this unit you are given the opportunity to explore a range of fiction and non-fiction forms and genre, practise writing in them and identifying typical features. The examination is based on one question from a choice of two, with two original writing responses and one commentary. Component 4: Language and Identity (2,500–3,500 word language investigation coursework – 20% of qualification) You will conduct a language investigation that fits broadly into one of the following areas: language and self- representation; language and gender; language and culture; or language diversity. Topics have previously included the representation of male and female sports, the language of arguments on the TV show Love Island, and how parents modify their language depending on which child they are talking to. Am I suited to this course? You would be well suited to studying English Language at A level if you: — would like to develop your research and analytical skills — enjoy investigating the way language and society are linked — have the commitment to take on a challenging subject — would like to develop your own writing skills in both fiction and non-fiction writing. What other subjects does it complement? English Language goes well with many subjects. Obvious links are with History, Drama, Film Studies, Sociology and Psychology but it can also be studied with Sciences, Art and Geography. Where can it lead? Studying English Language can lead directly to degree courses in English and Linguistics, and the essay and formal writing skills students develop are essential across a huge range of disciplines. It is also a useful foundation for those looking at careers in journalism, media and teaching.
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