English KS4

GCSE English Language and English Literature

Every student will complete the syllabus for GCSE English Language & GCSE English Literature. These are two separate GCSE qualifications, but they will both be studied simultaneously in English lessons throughout Years 10 and 11. The skills and knowledge developed whilst studying English Literature both enhance, complement and overlap the skills required to succeed in English Language. 

Exam Specification : AQA : English Language

Exam Specification : AQA : English Literature

The final assessment for the GCSE qualification of English Language will be comprised of 100% examination performance. Students will sit two examinations at the end of Year 11. The Paper 1 examination will assess abilities in Reading Fiction texts and Creative Writing. The Paper 2 examination will assess abilities in Reading 19th and 21stCentury Non-Fiction texts and Transactional and Persuasive Writing. 

The final assessment for the GCSE qualification of English Literature will also be comprised of 100% examination performance. Students will sit two examinations at the end of year 11.

Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel. Section A Shakespeare: students will answer one question on their play of choice. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the play and then to write about the play as a whole. Section B The 19th-century novel: students will answer one question on their novel of choice. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the novel and then to write about the novel as a whole.

Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry.  Section A Modern texts: students will answer one essay question from a choice of two on their studied modern prose or drama text. Section B Poetry: students will answer one comparative question on one named poem printed on the paper and one other poem from their chosen anthology cluster. Section C Unseen poetry: Students will answer one question on one unseen poem and one question comparing this poem with a second unseen poem. 

Achievement in English at all levels is advantageous and often essential for a wide variety of academic, business and vocational courses and careers. Universities, Higher Education colleges and Apprenticeship schemes often specify a minimum standard. LP Hartley wrote that ‘good writers touch life often’. By exploring a wide variety of texts, you will be better equipped to make decisions about how you want to live your life. For those with a deeper interest in the subject careers are available in journalism, performing arts, teaching, publishing, law and being an author.

Any parents or students who would like more information about the above courses should contact Mr Mitson.