The course will enable students to analyse a range of texts in a variety of contexts, taking into consideration a range of theories and ideas about the English language. Through the written element of the course, students will develop their own editorial skills.

Course content:

Year 12

Exploring Language assesses students’ ability to analyse ‘real-world’ texts – looking in detail at their lexical and grammatical choices in relation to contextual factors. Students will learn how to identify patterns in texts and to explore their effects on readers. This unit also involves students writing about topical language issues. Students also learn to compare and contrast texts from different non-fiction genres – including spoken transcripts featuring different accents and dialects.

Year 13

Dimensions of Linguistic Variation leads to students investigating how children acquire language, how language is used in the media and how language has changed over the course of time. This analytical unit is also examined externally. The NEA (non-examined assessment) is an opportunity to explore a topic of their own choice through their own collection of linguistic data. This is a rewarding and motivating experience for students.