AQA GCSE English Language and English Literature

Course Overview

Autumn 1 and autumn 2: English Literature Paper 1 Section A: Shakespeare - Students will study the play Macbeth by William Shakespeare. As well as exploring the context of the play and how this influences our understanding of the text, they will examine how Shakespeare uses language, form and structure to present the characters and themes in the play. During assessment week, students will be given a short extract that they must use to closely analyse, whilst making links to the play as a whole.

Spring 1: English Language Paper 2 Section B: Writing from a viewpoint or perspective - Students will practise writing a range of non-fiction texts such letters, articles, leaflets and speeches. They will need to consider the purpose, audience and format of each task and adopt effective conventions. They will develop their use of ambitious language and language techniques as well as how to structure their writing. They will work on the technical accuracy of their writing including their use of sentences, punctuation and spelling.

Spring 2: English Language Paper 1 Sections A and B revision – Students will look at a series of sample papers/tasks in preparation for the formal exam. They will practise the timings for the individual sections and recap the appropriate skills for each question.

Summer 1: English Literature Paper 1 and Paper 2 revision – Students will recap the context, characters and main themes of their set texts. They will look at sample papers and create a series of plans and full responses. They will learn quotations for each of the set texts and revise key English terms.

Summer 2: English Language Paper 2 Sections A and B revision – As with the Paper 1 revision, students will look at a series of sample papers/tasks in preparation for the formal exam. They will practise the timings for the individual sections and recap the appropriate skills for each question.

Pre-public examinations will take place in November, February and March, with the GCSEs in May and June.

Useful Links

http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/gcse/english-literature-8702 - English Literature exam board specification

http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/gcse/english-language-8700 - English Language exam board specification

http://www.bbc.co.uk/education BBC Bitesize has an excellent range of materials to support the preparation for both English Language and English Literature GCSEs. CGP revision guides are also an effective way to supplement the learning in school.