What is it?
If you choose to study our combined course you will enjoy some of the best elements of both English language and literature. We look at how ‘voice’ is created in speech and writing – including studying 20th and 21st literature and a modern piece of drama. We also consider the idea of ‘voice’ in non-literary and digital texts too, giving you the chance to study how language functions in the real world. Our second module focuses on studying a range of texts with a shared theme – allowing students to engage with a wide range of literature from different time periods.
Why study this subject at Blackpool Sixth?
Studying Combined Language and Literature will extend and develop your knowledge and confidence in the art and craft of established writers and how they communicate through texts, inspiring your own creative skills.
What skills will I develop?
- Collaborative/team building skills
- How to structure, present and defend an argument
- How to use other people’s opinions to develop/counter and support your argument
- How to work individually and expand your knowledge of history, culture, art and literature
How will I be taught?
- Discussion
- Collaborative learning
- Analysis and evaluation of texts
- Essay writing
How will I be assessed?
20% coursework – ‘Investigating and creating texts’. Here you will be required to write two pieces of original writing – one piece of fiction and one piece of creative non-fiction writing. You will also be required to write an analytical commentary on both of your pieces of original writing.
2 x examinations at the end of your 2nd year (2.5 hours per exam)
Teacher expertise
You will be taught by an experienced and passionate subject specialist who is also a successful examiner.
Field trips, projects and employability opportunities
We regularly welcome speakers from universities and ex-students to inspire a love of the subject and support those who want to study it at university. We are investigating new opportunities for trips and visits to support this course.
Where does it lead?
Our students go on to pursue a range of career paths in areas such as teaching, marketing, publishing, Law and management. We have also had a number of students who have gone to Oxford, Cambridge and Yale as well as a range of other high ranking universities.
Equipment
You will need to have your own copies of each of the texts. You will also need to have access to a laptop/computer/tablet to enable you to work collaboratively in class and access a range of digital resources.
Examination board
EDEXCEL
Specific Requirements
- Grade 5 in GCSE English Literature and/or language is preferred but a student with a grade 4 with genuine enthusiasm for the subject will be considered.
What will I study?
There are a wide range of set texts on the syllabus, including a free compulsory Anthology that college will provide.
- In unit 1, we also study ‘A Streetcar named Desire’ by Tennesse Williams.
- In unit 2, we study ‘The Great Gatsby’ by F Scott Fitzgerald; secondary text choices range from Dickens’ ‘Great Expectations’ to Larkin’s ‘Whitsun Weddings’.