English is a two-year course which leads to two qualifications: GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature.
GCSE English Language allows students to demonstrate their ability to:
use English in real life contexts
explore the way meaning is conveyed
use an investigative and analytical approach to language topics, drawing on personal experience.
GCSE English Literature requires candidates to explore texts from a personal perspective and offers an experience of:
literature today
literature globally
the literary heritage
literary criticism and analysis
All work is assessed in terminal exams at the end of year 11, two each for GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature.
During the course pupils will be expected to:
improve their skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening
learn to write and speak fluent, accurate and appropriate English
read and respond to a range of literature, both fiction and non-fiction.
AQA English Language (Course Code: 8700)
AQA English Literature (Course Code: 8702)
English Language - AQA
There are two exams:
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing
1 hour 45 minute exam - 50% of the GCSE
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives
1 hour 45 minute exam - 50% of the GCSE
Students also need to complete one speaking and listening task which, although compulsory, does not count toward the overall grade.
English Literature – AQA
There are two exams:
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th-Century novel
1 hour 45 minute exam - 40% of the GCSE.
Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry
2 hour 15 minute exam - 60% of the GCSE.
Increasing understanding
Pupils can make considerable progress in English by taking care with all work set. Homework feeds into developing skills and, if tackled conscientiously, will contribute directly to learning.
When studying set texts, pupils are advised to read other work by the same author. Reading non-fiction is a key National Curriculum strand and we advise pupils to read quality journalism to help their background knowledge of informative language as well as to increase their awareness of issues for discussion.
Response to poetry (classic, contemporary and multi-cultural) is another key National Curriculum strand and wider reading of poetry is therefore also helpful.
Further information about the courses can be found on the AQA website:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/gcse