English A level by Distance Learning - The Course

The course is split into two major components - AS and A2.  The AS level is often taken at the end of the first year and the A2 at the end of the second year.

Each lesson begins with a set of clear objectives and an explanation of its place in the overall programme of study.

Effective learning is encouraged through frequent activities and self-assessment questions.

There are eleven tutor-marked assignments (known as TMAs).

Key Topics Covered

The English A Level covers the six modules that match the units of assessment (exam papers). These units are as follows:

AS Level

• Discovering Language

  This unit is designed to introduce candidates to the study of the
  modes of language. It employs the core variation concepts of
  audience, purpose, field, genre and mode. Candidates are
  required to study how language is used in written, spoken and
  electronic forms.

• M2 Representation and Language (20%) (coursework)

  This coursework unit is designed to develop candidates’ ability to
  write for specific audiences and purposes and to explore the key
  ideas of representation and ideology.

A2 Level

• M3 Language Explorations (synoptic 30%)

  
  The first A2 unit is designed to introduce candidates to the wider
  study of language in society. After the AS units which focussed on
  language in its immediate contexts (use-related variation according to subject, purpose, audience, genre and mode), this unit places language in its wider geographical, social and temporal contexts

• Language Investigations and Interventions (coursework 20%)

  This unit is designed to develop candidates’ ability to investigate
  language independently. It enables them to pursue areas of
  individual interest and to explore methodological issues concerning data collection and analysis.

The A level develops the following abilities: to communicate clearly, to analyse language (both spoken and written), to explore different media, dialects, registers, etc.

The Syllabus

This course prepares candidates for the AQA English Language AS level syllabus 1701 for examinations in 2009 and later years. Candidates may wish to add to this qualification by studying the A2 component (syllabus 2701). The full A level comprises AS and A2. Both syllabuses have been chosen as they are the most suited to the home schooling.

Assessment

Unit 1 --- ENGA1 Seeing Through Language ( 60% of AS, 30% of A Level)
2 hour written examination: Language Analysis task and Language Development essay

Unit 2 --- ENGA2 Representation and Language (40% of AS, 20% of A Level)
Coursework: One Investigation and one Production task plus commentary (2000-
2500 words)

Unit 3 --- ENGA3 Language Explorations (30% of A Level)
2 hour 30 minutes written examination

Unit 4 --- ENGA4 Language Investigations and Interventions (20% of A Level)
Coursework: One Investigation and one Intervention task (3,000-3,750 words).

English A level Requirements

It is assumed that prospective candidates for this course have obtained a pass mark of C or above in English GCSE or an equivalent qualification.