< Back to subject choices

English Language/Literature

The course involves the varied and challenging study of a variety of texts, both fiction and non-fiction in preparation for two GCSE grades. In English Language students will be taught to read closely and how to write in a variety of different styles and for different audiences. A confident understanding of grammar, spelling and technical accuracy is an essential part of the course. The study of both pre- and post-1914 poetry, prose and drama, including Shakespeare and the Romantic poets are a key part of the English Literature programme of study. 

HOW STUDENTS WILL STUDY

Reading, writing and spoken language are the areas of study. 

Students are encouraged to develop the following skills over the two-year course: 

  • Independent learning skills

  • Reading for pleasure and analytically

  • Working effectively in small groups

  • Writing with technical and grammatical accuracy

  • Writing for specific purposes and audiences. 

Students will complete at least one assessment each half term designed to assess their progress and set targets to help them improve their attainment. 

DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES

  • Building confidence through regular positive teacher feedback.

  • Peer assessment and self-marking strategies to show how best to improve. 

  • A wide variety of different reading and writing experiences to encourage creativity and involvement. 

  • Enrichment beyond the classroom (film, theatre, author visits.)

HOW STUDENTS WILL BE ASSESSED

English Language

Component 1 - 20th Century Literature Reading and creative Prose Writing.

  • Section A (20%) Reading

    One prose extract (about 60-100 lines) of literature from the 20th Century assessed through a range of structured questions.

  • Section B (20%) – Prose Writing

    One creative writing task selected from a choice of four titles.

Component 2 - 19th Century Non-fiction Reading and Transactional Writing.

  • Section A (30%) – Reading

    Understanding of two extracts (about 900-1200 words] one from the 19th Century, the other from the 21st Century, assessed through a range of structured questions.

  • Section B (30%) – Writing

    Two compulsory transactional/persuasive writing tasks.

Component 3 – Spoken Language [Non-exam weighted]

  • One presentation/speech, including responses to questions and feedback.

  • Achievement in Spoken Language will be reported as part of the qualification, but it will not form part of the final mark and grade.

English Literature

  • Component 1:  Shakespeare and Poetry (40%) Written examination.

  • Component 2:  Post-1914 Prose/Drama, 19th Century Prose and Unseen Poetry (60%) written examination. 

PROGRESSION ROUTES

English Language is the key subject required by employers and compulsory for further educational courses. English Literature is also a highly valued qualification offering a good foundation for a wide range of Higher Level courses. 

More info:

English Language -

English Literature -

Head of Department:

Ms S McAnealy – Head of English smcanealy@hswv.co.uk

Student Quote:

‘English gives the opportunity to express your own opinions and views on different topics.’

‘English is really hard work but you can make brilliant progress.’

‘The teachers are always there to help and support.’