GCSE English
Choosing GCSE English means securing two essential qualifications: English Language and English Literature. This course is critical for building the communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills needed for success in every future pathway, from university to employment.
The course is split into two separate GCSE qualifications:
English Language: This focuses on developing analysis of language and structure, evaluating viewpoints and perspectives, creative writing, and transactional writing. You'll develop key skills in reading comprehension, composing various forms of writing, and public speaking. These are valuable, practical skills used across all careers.
English Literature: You will explore a range of classic and modern texts, fostering your creativity, empathy, and critical analysis. We will study:
- Shakespeare: Macbeth
- 19th Century Novel: A Christmas Carol
- Modern Text: An Inspector Calls
- Poetry: A collection of Power and Conflict Poetry and Unseen Poetry analysis.
Spoken Language Endorsement (SLE):
This is a separate, mandatory component covering your spoken communication skills.
You will research a topic of interest and deliver a short presentation.
The SLE is assessed in Year 10 and is reported as a separate grade (Pass, Merit, Distinction, or Not Classified). It does not count towards your final English Language GCSE grade.
An English GCSE is one of the most versatile and essential qualifications you can have. The skills you gain—strong communication, critical analysis, and the ability to interpret complex information—are highly transferable and sought after by universities and employers in nearly every sector.
Career pathways that particularly benefit from a strong English qualification include:
- Law and Criminology
- Media and Journalism
- Education and Teaching
- Marketing and Public Relations
- Publishing and Creative Writing
- Business and Management
- The Arts and Humanities
Useful Websites
Language:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zcbchv4
Literature:
To further support the students in their English studies we will be offering some targeted intervention sessions for Y11 students. These intervention sessions will have a specific focus and students will be invited to them. We will communicate home when these sessions are if/when your child is invited. It would be much appreciated if you can encourage your child to attend these sessions if invited.
