English Language

Introductory Video

Subject Specification

English Language AQA
English Language AQA 664.37 KB

Subject Page from the Prospectus

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A-level English Language

Are you fascinated by language and how it shapes our world? Do you want to understand how people communicate across different platforms, contexts, and cultures? The A-Level English Language course is your gateway to mastering the art of language and exploring its influence on society.

Why Choose A-Level English Language?

  • Deepen Your Understanding of how language is used in everyday life, from social media to literature and beyond.
  • Develop Essential Skills in analysis, critical thinking, research, and communication—vital for success in both university and the workplace.
  • Explore Language Diversity, child language acquisition, and the history of English.
  • Engage in Independent Research with coursework that allows you to investigate a language topic of your choice.

What Will You Study?

  1. Language and the Individual
  • Analyse how language is shaped by purpose, audience, and context.
  • Explore texts from various modes, including written and spoken language.

     2. Language Varieties

  • Investigate regional, social, and ethnic varieties of English.
  • Examine how language reflects identity, power, gender, and technology. 
  1. Child Language Development
  • Study how children acquire language from birth to age 11.
  • Learn about the stages and theories of language acquisition. 
  1. Language Change
  • Understand how English has evolved over time and continues to change in modern contexts, including digital communication. 
  1. Language Investigation (Coursework)
  • Choose a topic you're passionate about and conduct independent research using real-world language data.

Key Skills You'll Develop

  • Critical Thinking: Analyse language in-depth and from different perspectives.
  • Creative Writing: Develop your own unique style across different genres.
  • Research Skills: Conduct in-depth investigations into language-related issues.
  • Effective Communication: Enhance your ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively, both in writing and speech.

What Can English Literature Lead To?

A-Level English Language opens up exciting pathways in a variety of fields:

  • Journalism
  • Media and Communications
  • Linguistics
  • Advertising and Marketing
  • Law
  • Teaching
  • Public Relations

Entry Requirements 

Typically, a grade 6 or higher in GCSE English Language or English Literature is required.