English Language and Literature (combined) A level
Entry requirements
- GCSE English Language Grade 6 or above
- GCSE English Literature Grade 6 or above
Course outline
Combined English Literature and Language A Level is a unique qualification that covers a range of analytical, linguistic, and writing skills. The course is designed to develop students’ critical engagement with a number of texts – both fiction and non-fiction – and apply these techniques to their own portfolio of creative writing. Ultimately, students will be equipped with a breadth of interpretation and writing skills that will empower them on a plethora of post-18 pathways.
Course content
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in English Language and Literature // 9EL0
Component 1 – Voices in Speech and Writing, 40%
Theme: Voices
Set texts*:
- Voices in Speech and Writing: An Anthology
- DRAMA: A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
Component 2 – Voices in Speech and Writing, 40%
Theme: Crossing Boundaries
Set texts*:
- NOVEL: Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys
- POETRY: Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti
- Non-fiction texts
- Wide range of non-fiction texts on chosen theme
Component 3 – NEA, 20%
Theme: Belief and superstition
Set texts*:
- FICTION: The Crucible by Arthur Miller
- NON FICTION: Persepolis
*While unlikely, the set texts may be subject to change.
How will I be assessed?
Component 1 – Voices in Speech and Writing, 40%
- Assignment 1: Examination, 2hr 30min
- Open book: clean copies
- Section A: comparative essay on one unseen extract and one text from anthology (25 marks)
- Section B: on extract-based essay question on chosen drama text (25 marks)
Component 2 – Varieties in Language and Literature, 40%
- Examination, 2hr 30min
- Open book: clean copies
- Section A: Unseen prose non-fiction text essay (20 marks)
- Section B: Comparative essay question on anchor text and other text (30 marks)
Component 3 – NEA, 20%
- Assignment 1: Two pieces of original writing: one fiction, one creative non-fiction
- Assignment 2: One analytical commentary reflecting on studied texts and writing produced
- 2500-3000 words: 1500-2000 for original writing, 1000-1250 for commentary
- 60 marks; 36 original writing, 24 commentaries
Future opportunities
Combined English A level is the perfect course, regardless of whether a student has selected it to pursue English and/or other Humanities subjects post-18 or follow a Science based route. From an English and Humanities perspective, the vast range of writing forms that students encounter will empower them to approach any text or evidence based subject with confidence and will stand strong on a university application. Furthermore, students pursuing a Performing Arts route will be enriched by studying English A level due to the interpretive and psychoanalytical skills developed through our text study, including at least two scripts. Likewise from a Science/Maths pathway perspective, the study of non-fiction writing alongside literary fiction makes Combined English a perfectly, relevant complementary course for a student engaged with a Science-based pathway who would still like to keep English within their curriculum diet.
Students who study English A level can go onto any number of courses or careers. Some popular options are careers in journalism (including print, broadcast and digital), publishing, screenwriting, editorial roles, marketing, and law.
Who to speak to for more information:
Ms E Barnard, Head of English, e.barnard@kwschool.co.uk