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
Year 1
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
Year 2
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
Skills Developed
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 Literature
- English Language & Literature
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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