English Language

Course summary

ENGLISH LANGUAGE (SOCIO-LINGUISTICS) Language is all around us! Rather than simply taking it for granted, this subject allows you to explore issues such as how our gender affects our use of language, prejudices about certain accents, and how technology is fast altering the ways in which we communicate. Much of the course is underpinned by knowledge and application of theories of professional linguists. You will also study how children learn to speak and write, see how English has changed over time, and develop an understanding of its position in the world today. You will learn about English grammar so that you can analyse a range of texts, uncovering how language is often crafted to manipulate public attitudes. You will be required to complete two pieces of coursework. THE FUTURE: This course opens doors to a range of university degrees (including Science and Medicine in some cases). It can also lead to a range of fulfilling careers such as: Law, Journalism, Politics, Teaching and Lecturing, Advertising and Marketing, Speech and Language Therapy, Media Research and presenting (radio and TV), Human Resources and Web Content Management. YEAR 12: • The study of aspects of language in society, related to gender, social groups, occupation and technology, geographical region • Analysis of how texts are manipulated to represent people and institutions • Development of writing skills in producing analytical essays and opinion pieces, also feature articles on language issues YEAR 13: • Extending knowledge on text variation and representation • The study of how children learn to speak, read and write • Extending knowledge on language diversity and change over time, also English on a global scale • Non-examined Assessment: Original writing plus an independent investigation into an aspect of language