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Hear from Karen Buckley

As core curriculum subjects, all boys study English Language and English Literature from Years 7 – 11. They follow a course to GCSE in both subjects.

GCSE

This involves the study of English Language and Literature, covering a range of texts from Shakespeare to a modern novel/play, whilst also teaching boys how to write analytically and clearly for a range of audiences.  It also features an oral component, which focusses on the importance of presentational skills.

The Exam Board is English Language and Literature: AQA 8700/8702 and there are four written examination papers;

  • English Language 2 x 1 hour 45 minutes
  • English Literature Paper 1, 1 hour 45 minus
  • English Literature Paper 2, 2 hours 15 minutes

All GCSE students study English, which teaches vital skills of reading and writing, as well as analytical thinking skills. The course has been designed to inspire and motivate, providing appropriate stretch and challenge whilst ensuring, as far as possible, that the assessment and texts are accessible to the full range of abilities. These subjects will enable boys, whatever their ability, to develop the skills needed to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts covering the 19th, 20th and 21st century time periods as well as to write clearly, coherently and accurately using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures.

Subject Enrichment

  • Poetry Society
  • Creative Writing Club
  • Debating Club
  • Support Club
  • Young Readers’ Society

A Level

English at A Level is a Literature course. It includes the study of a wide range of texts from a range of periods: modern and Shakespeare plays. Two novels for a comparative examination. Contemporary poetry with an unseen element for comparison, and the work of a poet pre-1900. Paired texts for coursework at the discretion of the teacher, with an opportunity for further and independent reading.

The Exam Board is Edexcel English Literature and there are three examinations: Drama (2 hours and 15 mins.), Prose (1 hour 15 minutes) and Poetry (2 hours and 15 mins).

There is also one coursework essay on comparative texts of 2500 – 3000 words.

Why study A Level English at the Grammar School?

English is a hospitable subject and is taught in small, friendly and focussed classes by experienced teachers. We welcome those who are looking for a manageable third option as well as those who wish to follow the subject through to Degree Level. In recent years a number of pupils have gone to a variety of Universities, including Oxbridge, to continue their English studies. We include Old Loughburian Journalists and Broadcasters among our recent graduates from English courses in Higher Education. In career terms, therefore, anyone interested in Journalism, or related Media occupations, should look seriously at this course but English is an excellent general Degree as a preparation for any career. Future Lawyers will find advanced English studies especially beneficial. Legal judgement is based on linguistic meaning and intent.

Subject Enrichment

  • Theatre Visits
  • Extension Classes
  • Creative Writing Club
  • Debating Club

"It's a brotherhood. Once a Grammar boy, always a Grammar boy"

Teacher