English Language is an engaging course which focusses on skills aspects of the English Language from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. This course has been designed to stretch and challenge as far as possible, whilst still making it accessible for a full range of students. A wide range of different texts are covered from the 19th, 20th and 21st century, along with getting students to write clearly, coherently and accurately using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures. These skills are also taught throughout Key Stage 3 and recapped regularly.

Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and writing

Reading (40 marks) (25%) – one single text

• One short form question (1 x 4 marks)
• Two longer form questions (2 x 8 marks)
• One extended question (1 x 20 marks)

Writing (40 marks) (25%)

• One extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)

Paper 2: Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives

Reading (40 marks) (25%) – two linked texts

• One short form question (1 x 4 marks)
• Two longer form questions (1 x 8, 1 x 12 marks)
• One extended question (1 x 16 marks)

Writing (40 marks) (25%)

• One extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)

Students are assessed through two examinations for English Language at the end of Year 11.

Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and writing – written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes. Worth 80 marks and 50% of GCSE.

• Section A: Reading – one literature fiction text.
• Section B: Writing- descriptive or narrative writing.

Paper 2: Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives – written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes. Worth 80 marks and 50% of GCSE.

• Section A: Reading – one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text
• Section B: Writing – writing to present a viewpoint.

Plus a non-examination assessment: Spoken Language

Students are required to present a topic of their choice and respond to questions and feedback. Assessed: Teacher set throughout course and graded. Separate endorsement (0% weighting of GCSE).

There are various Sixth Forms and Colleges around the local area where you can study A-level and BTEC qualifications. To give you an indication of the grades you may require, if you achieve grade 9-6 in GCSE English Language you could study A-level English Language or A-level English Literature at Bourne Academy Sixth Form.