Whatever your views on the quotations, English Language and English Literature are undoubtedly among the most important and influential subjects learnt at school. From the necessary lifeskills of communicating through writing and speaking, to nurturing a life-long love of literature, the English Department has something to offer every learner. 

Achievement for All

 

Exam Boards: 

 

     Key Stage 3: students are assessed internally by class teachers.  Assessments cover the three focuses of English: reading, writing, and speaking and listening.  A variety of assessments take place throughout the year.  

 

     Key Stage 4: students sit their English Language GCSE in the January of Year 11 (for students entering year 10 in 2012, the exam will be in November of year 11).  This enables them to concentrate exclusively on their English Literature GCSE in May of Year 11. We use the AQA syllabus at both Foundation and Higher tiers, allowing learners to reach their full potential, regardless of ability. Part of the course is assessed via Controlled Assessments - written work completed under exam conditions in class time. 

 

    There is also provision for some students to gain their National Certificate of Achievement (Key Skills) at Entry Level with the Welsh Board.

 

     

 

     Key Stage 5 English Literature (Years 12 and 13): students study the AQA B specification for English Literature. The syllabus introduces students to a wide range of both contemporary and traditional novels, poetry and drama. At AS, students study the genre of comedy, as well as exploring 'Aspects of Narrative'.  At A2 students study the gothic genre.  Learners respond to their texts in traditional examinations and written coursework.

 

    Key Stage 5 English Language (Years 12 and 13): students study the AQA B specification for English Language.  The syllabus introduces students to a range of linguistic approaches to texts, and explores theories of language use relating to technology, gender and power.  At AS level, students are required to produce two pieces of creative writing.  The A2 course offers students the opportunity to study Child Language Acquisition and the History of English, as well as conducting their own research into a language topic.  The course is assessed via written coursework and examinations. 

 

     Departmental Setting Policy

    

     Key Stage 3: Learners are placed in broad ability groups according to their estimated levels of achievement at Key Stage 3 and teacher recommendations from feeder schools.  All groups follow the same curriculum, which is differentiated according to the individuals in teh group.  Setting is reviewed in the first half term to ensure that learners are appropriately placed.

 

    Key Stage 4: Learners are grouped according to their performance at Key Stage 3, teacher recommendation and target grade. Grouping is regularly reviewed; a common syllabus makes for ease of transfer.