What is English Language and Literature?
This course will develop your skills from GCSE and aims to integrate literary and linguistic study. You will study fiction and non fiction texts and use your understanding of these to develop your own original writing.
We study a range of non fiction written and spoken texts as well as a collection of poetry by Carol Ann Duffy, The Great Gatsby by Scott Fitzgerald and A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams.
Why study English Language and Literature?
This is a very varied course and gives you the opportunity to study more modern texts and forms of written communication than in traditional English courses. The range of different texts means there’s something for everyone and it is the only one of the three English options that explores creative writing in depth.
Is English Language and Literature right for you?
If you have enjoyed all aspects of both English Literature and English Language at GCSE then you should find plenty to keep you engaged on this course. You need to enjoy reading all types of texts and have an interest in developing your own writing skills. The texts we study are full of interesting topics and so, if you enjoy a good classroom debate, you will find lessons both enjoyable and stimulating.
What will you study?
The language of poetry and plays
A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams and Rapture by Carol Ann Duffy
Exploring non-fiction and spoken texts
Reading as a writer, writing as a reader
The Great Gatsby by F Scott Fitzgerald, and original narrative writing
Coursework
One comparative analytical essay of 2,000 words and one piece of original non-fiction writing of 1,000 words
What happens outside lessons?
Last year, we had the opportunity to see a production of A Streetcar Named Desire at The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield which students thoroughly enjoyed and found invaluable in helping them understand the dramatic devices in the play.
We have also welcomed guest speakers from the University of Teesside as well as people from the world of publishing.
We are always on the look out for suitable theatre productions and other activities that will help to bring the Curriculum alive.
In addition, there are plenty of opportunities to develop your own love of reading and writing outside the curriculum with creative writing groups, a reading group (both in person and online) and a student newsletter.
Where can English Language and Literature take you?
Careers directly associated with English include journalism, creative media jobs, teaching, publishing and marketing.
English will also develop a wide range of skills that all employers are looking for. All careers demand good levels of both written and verbal communication as well as an ability to analyse information effectively. In addition to this, it has been proven that studying English develops empathy and emotional intelligence which is something that AI will never be able to replace!
What subjects go well with English Language and Literature?
English Language and Literature works well with a wide variety of subjects. Especially useful combinations are Sociology, History, Media Studies and Film Studies.