Course overview
A-Level English Language & Literature will benefit students who enjoy reading and creative writing. It is a core academic subject which will hone your skills at analysis and writing creatively.
You will analyse a diverse range of texts; from poems, plays and speeches, to TV scripts and e-communications. You will also consider how English is used in both spoken and written forms, exploring elements from both Language and Literature A-Levels to bring you the best of both.
What will I study?
Modules
- Component 1: Voices in Speech and Writing: An anthology of non-fiction extracts and one drama text (Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire).
- Component 2: Varieties in Language and Literature: Two texts connected by the topic ‘The Individual and Society’ (one collection of poetry Philip Larkin’s The Whitsun Weddings and one novel F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby).
- Component 3: Coursework: Creative writing includes one fiction piece and one non-fiction piece related to a specific theme and a core text. You must write a commentary to describe the choices made in the creative pieces.
You will be assessed mainly by examination with a coursework component in the second year. During both years you will write analysis, essays on literary texts, transformation texts and take part in presentations. As a second year student you will complete coursework which is creative writing inspired by texts you have read
Entry requirements
- Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including Maths.
- Grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language.
- Grade 5 or above in a GCSE written subject eg. History, Geography, Humanities, English Literature, Business, Media Studies, Religious Studies (full course), Drama or Film.
Why should I choose USP College?
- Trips to the theatre, museums and galleries.
- Trip to The Guardian newspaper for a journalism course.
- Highly experienced tutors who are passionate about their subject.
Additional costs
- Set texts and texts for your own wider reading
- Trips to the theatre and to London
What could I do next?
An A-Level in English Language & Literature will prove an asset if you are applying to study any degree course in the humanities or social sciences, all of which place a premium on your powers of written expression. English can also be combined with a wide range of other courses at university such as Linguistics, Drama or Creative Writing.
This course provides an excellent foundation for careers that demand a command of both spoken and written English, such as law, journalism, publishing, teaching and the media.
Related Career Pathways
Find out more about the Career Pathways this course relates to.
