This course explores the English Language from different but complementary perspectives. It also provides opportunities for students to develop their own writing skills in a variety of contexts.
WHAT WILL I DO
The course consists of three modules for AS and a further two to make up a full A level. These cover a wide range of topics including analysis and investigation of different kinds of writing, language development in children, accent and dialect, spoken language and political correctness. 40% of the marks are coursework generated.
Year One - AS
Module 1 – Representation and Language (2000 word coursework folder)
You will begin this module in September and all coursework will be finished by Christmas. You will learn grammar up to half term. After half term you will apply this learning to three texts which represent an issue, event or person. You will also create a representation and write a commentary.
Module 2 - Seeing Through Language (2 hour June exam)
You will analyse texts from different modes including written, spoken and electronic. You will also answer a question about how children acquire language.
Year Two - A2
Module 3 - Language Explorations (2 ½ hour June exam)
A. Language Variation – study of how and why language changes and varies
B. Language Discourse – study of a range of popular texts which discuss language topics / issues
Module 4 - Language Investigations and Interventions (3000 word coursework folder)
This module provides the opportunity to investigate language independently. The focus is on spoken language.
AS and A2 (full A-level) courses may be studied on a part-time basis but students must be able to fit into the full-time time table.
The AS course requires one year of study. The full A Level requires two years.
You should have an interest in the English Language in all its variety. You should also have achieved at least 5 GCSEs at grade C or above and one of these must be in English (The grade C to study Language must be in Language - not Literature).
Mature students without formal qualifications are encouraged to discuss their suitability with the course tutor. Students must be aware that the coursework requires independent study on their part.
The qualification is useful for those wishing to apply for university. It is suitable for those aiming for careers in journalism, the media, Law or teaching. English Language at AS/A level will help you in reading and responding to a wide variety of texts; at interpreting, analysing and gathering and assessing evidence; and at working independently and creatively. In the real world, including the world of work, we are bombarded with texts; the skills that you will learn, therefore, including those of powerful and effective communication, are highly valued by employers.
Full time Courses are free for those who are under 19 on 31 August of the year they start their course. For others, fees may vary depending on personal circumstances. Please enquire for details.
International and EU Students, please contact the International Office on +44 (0)1205 313212 or enquiry@boston.ac.uk for details on Fees.
Where courses last for more than one year, only the first year’s fees are shown.
You can apply for this course by applying online, by filling out an application form from the College prospectus or you can contact the Information Officer on 01205 313218 for further information. The Information on this Course Information Sheet is correct at time of print, but can be subject to change at anytime.
The Information on this Course Information Sheet is correct at time of print, but can be subject to change at anytime.