English Language & Literature

Students who have enjoyed both English Language and English Literature at GCSE – those keen on reading and/or creative writing. Perhaps this will also suit you if you have an interest in History, Drama, Classics or Politics. It may lead to future university study and careers in journalism, creative writing, the arts, teaching at both primary and secondary level, as well as being a useful subject for those seeking a career in other forms of the media law, advertising, marketing.

Qualification:

Length:

4 periods per week

Unit 1:

Brief Description of Unit 1: Over the course of the year you will study two novels, one in depth, and an anthology of poetry from the Early Modern English period to 1900 (giving you the opportunity to learn about how the English Language has developed over time). You will also study a wide range of short extracts – from spoken transcripts, playscripts, poetry, prose and journalism-to help you prepare for the unseen text on the exam. The aim is to understand how writers create texts for different audiences and purposes, the different techniques writers use, and to feel confident in discussing issues such as character and theme. You will learn how to communicate those ideas in a crisp, clear written style.

Unit 2:

Brief Description of Unit 2: You will produce a folder of three pieces of work. Two of these will be pieces of original creative writing, each of approximately 1000 words. One must be literary (e.g. a short story, descriptive or personal writing, drama or poetry) and the other must be non literary (e.g. journalism, reviews, information text, etc). Your third and final piece is an analysis of your two pieces of writing, comparing and contrasting the content, form and style of each, (known as a commentary) and again, of approximately 1000 words.

What the department specifically offers that is noteworthy...:

The English department at Loreto is lively and extremely well-qualified, with a broad range of specialisms and interests – many of the staff are interested in creative writing and write themselves. There are many opportunities for visits – particularly to the theatre and occasionally to films, museums and places of local interest to stimulate writing. We encourage visits by professional writers. Many of the department are also experienced examiners in both literature and language.

Exam Board:

WJEC

GCSE Requirements:

General College entry requirements. PLUS English GCSE A*-C required