What is it?
A GCSE in English Language is vital whether you want to go to university, apply for an apprenticeship or get a job. Employers and universities will usually insist upon it as a basic requirement.
It is important to be confident in the use of language because many of the skills required in every day life and study require English in order to achieve the best success.
You can re-sit/take GCSE English Language alongside a range of BTEC and A Level courses subject to entry requirements.
Why study this subject at Blackpool Sixth?
We have an experienced team of specialist teachers who will boost your confidence in the subject and help you obtain that grade 4 (or higher).
What skills will I develop?
- After studying the above topics you will be able to:
- Identify information/ideas
- Comment on how writers use language
- Explain how writers structures texts
- Evaluate texts critically
- Structure a piece of writing effectively for an audience of your choice
How will I be taught?
- Group work
- Pair work
- Individual in-class tasks
- Class discussion
- Timed practice
- Independent learning (through Google Classroom)
How will I be assessed?
Paper 1: Explorations in creative Reading and Writing (1 hr 45 mins) 80 marks – 50% of GCSE
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives (1 hr 45 mins) 80 marks – 50% of GCSE
Teacher expertise
We have an experienced GCSE team with specialists in TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) and teachers who mark Paper 1 and Paper 2 for AQA.
Field trips, projects and employability opportunities
We will offer you a range of opportunities to enrich your learning.
Where does it lead?
After successful completion of the course, students progress onto their second year of study (some into lower sixth from Route 3 and some into upper sixth if they are already on a Level 3 programme.) In the past we have had a small number of students who have progressed to an A level course in English and many who have used it to progress to a range of courses at university.
Equipment
A black pen and a set of highlighters.
Examination board
AQA.
Specific requirements
- GCSE English Language – preferred grade 3 (minimum grade 2).
What will I study?
The course will be split into a range of engaging themes/topics which could include: social media & communication; captivity; exploration; gender; death & mortality; dinosaurs; computer gaming, and underwater beasts (please note: these are regularly reviewed in response to student voice and may be subject to change).