| Curriculum Leader of Learning: | Mr A Wilson |
| wilsona@christofidelis.org.uk | |
| Courses Studied: | AQA GCSE English Language |
Why study English?
English is a core subject and as a result one which is studied by all GCSE students. The English curriculum is divided into two GCSEs, English Language and English Literature. Studying English will provide students with the ability to analyse a range of both fiction and non fiction texts. It will also develop a student’s ability to infer and understand authorial choice whilst experiencing some of the finest examples of literary texts. Through English Language students will also have the opportunity to develop their creative writing skills and confidence in public speaking.
Course Outline
English Language
Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and writing
Paper 2: Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives
English Literature
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th century novel (Macbeth and Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde)
Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry (Animal Farm, Power and Conflict Poetry and Unseen Poetry)
How is the course assessed?
There are four examinations at the end of year 11 (two for English Language and two for English Literature:
English Language Paper 1 – 1 hour 45 minutes (50% of the GCSE)
English Language Paper 2 – 1 hour 45 minutes (50% of the GCSE)
English Literature Paper 1 – 1 hour 45 minutes (40% of the GCSE)
English Literature Paper 2 – 2 hours 15 minutes (60% of the GCSE)
Spoken Language Assessment
What do the English subject ambassadors think?
“I really enjoy English because it allows me to explore my creative side through writing and expand my analytical skills through the reading of all sorts of texts, which will help me later in life”
Where can this course lead?
English develops many skills that are valued by employers, such as communication skills, the ability to work co-operatively and the ability to write accurately. It can help lead to careers in journalism, marketing and law.
Career inspiration
From careers you know to opportunities you might never have imagined, discover where studying this subject could lead. Select the career to go to more information:
| Career | What could you do? |
| Journalist | Research and report stories for newspapers, websites and broadcasters. |
| Author | Write books, stories and other creative works. |
| English Teacher | Help students develop communication, reading and writing skills. |
| Video Game Narrative Designer | Develop characters, dialogue and stories for video games. |
| Speechwriter | Write speeches that communicate ideas and inspire audiences. |
| Public Relations Officer | Manage how organisations communicate with the public and media. |
