English Language

Course summary

This is a scientific study of how language works on different levels and is completely unlike GCSE. You will explore the ways in which language works on many levels and how context (such as purpose and audience) shapes language use in all its forms. There is a focus on the spectrum between spontaneous speech and formal written documents through contemporary multi-modal texts. How language creates representations and manipulates audiences (including you) is a fascinating aspect of the course. The Study of child language acquistion develops insight into how we develop language skills and is very revealing about our own use of language. As we look at regional and social variety, how is language is intrinsically linked to our identity becomes more obvious. The final focus area is language change, both historical and contemporary. Written responses for exams and the NEA take a variety of forms and so these are explored in detail too, such as theoretical essays, fiction texts and editorial articles.