English

A reader lives a thousand lives before they die . . . People who never read live only one.”   

George R.R. Martin

English Vision

English Intent Statement

To provide an English curriculum that is rich in knowledge, skills and diversity to enable students to be curious, reflective and tolerant and that prepares them for all future learning and beyond to the world of employment.

How: An English curriculum which is sequenced to develop an acquisition of knowledge (from the English Canon to modern texts) and skills. Students will have access to a wide range of thought provoking, diverse and challenging fiction and non-fiction texts which will give opportunities to address cultural capital. With a focus on reading, and raising reading ages where necessary, we will ensure all students can access the curriculum across the whole school and leave at their chronological reading age or above.

Revision Provisions

What is English Language?

This is taught in Year 10 and 11 and assessed at the end of Year 11.

Who might enjoy this course?

English is a core subject that all students take.

Skills
developed

What about exams? What will I study?

The two papers are made up as follows:

Paper 1

Section A: Unseen 19th Century Fiction 

Section B: Imaginative Writing 

Spoken Language Endorsement:

Paper 2

Section A: Comparison of two unseen texts from the 20th and 21st century 

Section B: Transactional Writing


What could I do next with GCSE English?

English is a vital GCSE to have; it is a passport to further education and in all aspects of the world of work. Potential careers include English as a Foreign Language Teacher, Secondary/Primary Teaching, Copywriter, Proof-reader, Lexicographer, Media researcher, Advertising, Editor, Editorial assistant, Web content manager.

What is English Literature?

English Literature focuses on the study of a variety of literary texts.

Who might enjoy this course?

English Literature is studied by all pupils as it complements the English Language course and many of the skills overlap. There is a high success level in examinations.

Skills
developed

You will develop the ability to work independently, plan and research written work, articulate knowledge and understanding of texts plus hone analytical skills, time management and organisational skills.

What about exams? What will I study?

Paper 1

Section A:

Shakespeare – Macbeth

Section B:


Paper 2

Section A:

Section B:

What could I do next with GCSE English Literature?

Progress to study a combined English Language / Literature A Level or individual Language or Literature courses, with a view to accessing further education to study syllabi such as English and Media. Potential careers include Librarian, Teaching, Digital copywriter, English as a Foreign Language Teacher,  journalism (including sports, fashion etc.) Lexicographer, Proof-reader.

Steps to Success

English Literature

English Language

AVA English Learning Journey Map.pdf