English Language and Literature

Course summary

The English Department is staffed by a team of experienced specialists. We offer a range of support in addition to lessons; including theatre visits, conferences, literary trips and extensive additional study materials in the library and via the VLE. This provision contributes to the academic success our students attain. This course will deepen your knowledge and understanding of both language and literature and enrich your experience of English. You will discover the main linguistic and literary approaches and methods of study, and how these relate to each other in, for example, the integrated study of spoken and written, literary and non-literary, digital and non-digital texts. As well as preparing for two examinations which require you to develop both critical and creative responses to a variety of texts, nonexamination assessments will give you the opportunity to make integrated links between literary and non-literary texts of your own choice. Many degree level courses in English now require integrated study of language and literature. As well as developing your knowledge of both linguistic and literary methods, the course will develop high level critical and close reading skills, enhancing your ability to analyse texts from a variety of perspectives. Your knowledge of the English language will be developed, as will your writing skills in a variety of critical, creative and analytical modes. This A level is highly valued in preparing you for a wide range of university degree courses and possible careers: if you are interested in business and marketing, publishing or journalism, for example, this would be a useful, relevant subject choice.