English Combined

What is A-Level English Language and Literature?

In Edexcel A-Level English Language and Literature, students explore a rich combination of linguistic analysis and literary study, examining how language is used creatively and purposefully across a range of texts. The course focuses on both spoken and written forms of communication, enabling students to develop critical reading, interpretation, and analytical skills. One key component is the Edexcel Anthology, which features a diverse selection of 20th and 21st century texts including speeches, interviews, memoirs, and travel writing. These are studied for their stylistic and linguistic features, with particular attention paid to how identity, power, and viewpoint are conveyed through language.

Students also study the play 'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams, analysing its dramatic techniques, characterisation, and themes such as desire, gender, and mental instability. A major comparative element of the course involves studying 'The Bloody Chamber' by Angela Carter alongside 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Brontë, where students explore gothic and feminist themes, narrative style, and how writers challenge traditional representations of gender and power.

In addition to set texts, students develop skills in responding to unseen prose nonfiction, learning how to analyse unfamiliar texts through close reading and contextual understanding. Students also complete a creative writing coursework folder, allowing them to utilise many of the skills they have observed within their study of other writers. Overall, the course encourages thoughtful engagement with a range of texts and voices, fostering both analytical precision and creative appreciation.

What Will You Study on A-Level English Combined?

This engaging A-Level English Combined programme allows you to explore language in both literary and non-literary texts. You'll develop your analytical skills, broaden your appreciation of different genres and refine your own creative writing. You will study the following modules:

1. Voices in Speech and Writing (Paper 1):
This unit focuses on how writers and speakers craft distinctive voices. Students study a range of spoken and written texts from the Edexcel Anthology, which includes speeches, interviews, memoirs, and articles from the 20th and 21st centuries. Students learn to analyse language features, narrative voice, and contextual meaning. This unit also includes the play 'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams, where students explore dramatic techniques, characterisation, and themes such as desire, gender roles, and mental health.

2. Varieties in Language and Literature (Paper 2):
This unit includes the comparative study of two literary texts: 'The Bloody Chamber' by Angela Carter and 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Brontë. The focus is on how language is used to create meaning, particularly in relation to themes such as power, gender, the gothic, and the supernatural. Students compare narrative voice, structure, and characterisation, with opportunities to apply literary and linguistic frameworks.

3. Coursework (Non-Examined Assessment):
For the coursework unit, students complete two pieces of creative writing, one piece of fiction writing (e.g., a short story) and one piece of non-fiction writing (e.g., an article or memoir extract) and an analytical commentary reflecting on their language choices. This unit allows students to explore their own interests and develop independent research and writing skills.

Books and Equipment Required:

Edexcel Voices in Speech and Writing Anthology (provided by Cardinal Newman College)
'A Streetcar Named Desire' by Tennessee Williams
'The Bloody Chamber' by Angela Carter
'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Brontë

Students will also benefit from a good English dictionary, highlighters, notebooks, and access to online or print literary criticism for wider reading.

What Next after Completing an A-Level in English Language and Literature?

Many students continue their studies at top universities, including members of the Russell Group, pursuing degrees in areas such as:

English Literature
English Language and Linguistics
Creative Writing
Journalism and Media Studies
Law
History
Education and Teaching
Politics and Philosophy

Combined English prepares students well for essay-based subjects that require close reading, interpretation, and argumentation.

The skills developed—such as writing, analysis, and interpreting meaning—are transferable to a wide variety of professions. Students have gone on to careers in:

Publishing
Marketing and PR
Journalism and Broadcasting
Law
Teaching
Civil Service and Public Sector
Copywriting and Content Creation

What is the Exam Board for A-Level English Language and Literature?

A-Level English Language and Literature is assessed by Edexcel, a well-established exam board known for its clear course structure and wide range of engaging texts.

What are the Entry Requirements for A-Level English Language and Literature?

To enrol on this course, you’ll need at least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including at least a grade 5 in English Language and Literature.

If you’re not quite on track to meet these requirements, you might still be able to study A-Levels as part of a Mixed Programme, combining them with a BTEC qualification at Newman.

Speak to the admissions team to find out more about your options.

What Enrichment is on offer in this subject?

There are a range of exciting enrichment opportunities available, including the Debate Society, a trip to the Bronte Parsonage, trips to a range of universities as well as theatre visits.