English Language
English Language A Level helps you explore how language shapes our world - from everyday conversations to news articles, online content and political speeches. You’ll study how people use language, how it changes over time, and how factors like gender, region, power and technology influence how we communicate.
If you're curious about people, culture and communication, this course is a great fit. Lessons at St Brendan’s are accessible, supportive and designed to build your confidence step‑by‑step, helping you develop strong analytical and writing skills.
- Qualification
- A Level
- Exam Board
- AQA
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study English Language at St Brendan’s?
English Language helps you understand how communication works - how people create meaning, express identity and influence others. You’ll learn to analyse texts thoughtfully, write with purpose and explore how language reflects society and culture.
At St Brendan’s, our expert teachers make the subject engaging and approachable. You’ll study real‑life language examples, take part in discussions and develop skills that will support a wide range of future pathways.
Entry requirements
- GCSE Maths grade 3 or above
- GCSE English Language grade 5 or above
- GCSE English Literature grade 4 or above
- 5 GCSE’s at grade 4 or above
Course examination breakdown
What else do I need to know?
GCSE Maths grade 3 or above
GCSE English Language grade 5 or above
GCSE English Literature grade 4 or above
5 GCSE’s at grade 4 or above
year1
Language, the Individual and Society (AQA – specification content)
How language constructs identity
Text analysis using linguistic methods
Language Levels and Analytical Frameworks (AQA)
Grammar, lexis, semantics and discourse
Phonetics, phonology and prosodics
Pragmatics and meaning in context
Language Diversity and Change (AQA – specification content)
Regional, social and gender‑based language varieties
How language changes across time
year2
Language, the Individual and Society (AQA – specification content)
Text analysis using linguistic methods
Child Language Acquisition — how children learn to speak
Language Diversity and Change (AQA – specification content)
Global English and language contact
How language changes across time
Language Discourses (AQA)
Analysing attitudes to language
Writing discursive responses
Understanding debates about correctness, identity and change
Non‑Exam Assessment (Language in Action) (AQA)
Independent Language Investigation
Original Writing (persuasive, informative or storytelling)
Commentary analysing your linguistic choices
skillsDeveloped
You’ll build skills in:
Textual and linguistic analysis
Critical thinking and evaluation
Research and investigative writing
Original writing for different audiences
Understanding social, cultural and historical language issues
Teaching includes clear explanations, guided analysis, pair and group work, discussions, independent research and regular writing practice. Lessons link theory to real‑world examples, helping you apply concepts confidently.
You’ll complete mock papers, practice essays and data analysis tasks throughout the course. Feedback focuses on strengthening your analysis, argument, structure and written expression.
Assessment:
Paper 1: Language, the Individual and Society (2 hours 30 mins) (AQA)
Paper 2: Language Diversity and Change (2 hours 30 mins) (AQA)
Non‑Exam Assessment (NEA): Language in Action – Investigation & Original Writing (20%) (AQA)
Specialist English classrooms
Access to a wide range of texts and linguistic resources
Digital platforms for research and analysis
Support for NEA investigations and writing
There are no compulsory additional costs. Optional revision guides or theatre/lecture trips may involve a small charge.
English Language pairs well with:
English Literature
Modern Foreign Languages
Sociology
Psychology
Media
Film
History
Politics
English Language supports progression to:
Linguistics
English Language
Media, Journalism & Communications
Sociology or Education
Speech and Language Therapy
Law, Marketing, Advertising or PR
Skills in analysis, communication and research are valued across many careers.
Opportunities may include:
Guest speakers on linguistics or media
Trips, workshops and university taster events
Creative and analytical writing activities
Progression opportunities
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