This course focuses on the close analysis of language, examining the choices we make when we write or speak. Not only will you study great Works of literature; you will also study non-fiction texts, learning more about the types of language we use every day: the anthology which features in this course includes such diverse non-fiction texts as web pages, transcripts of speech and passages from autobiographies. This creative course is designed to equip you with the skills to see how language manipulates people’s feelings, opinions and responses. You will be expected to read widely. This will be independent reading and, whilst you will be given a suggested reading list, your commitment to reading should go beyond this. You will be expected to contribute to high order discussions on texts, research, prepare and deliver presentations, develop sophisticated essay writing techniques and analyse texts. For Paper 1, you will compare two texts from an anthology of non-fiction texts on Paris alongside other sections. For Paper 2, you will be given a passage from The Great Gatsby to re-create from a different perspective which will test your creative skills. You will also be given a passage from Othello to analyse and discuss in relation to the whole text. English occupies a central position in our education system, valued by a wide range of higher education courses. Careers in journalism, media, advertising and publishing are obvious English-based opportunities.