CURRICULUM SUBJECT
English
We aim to create a life-long love of English literature and language all its forms through reading, writing, speaking, performing and listening.
Given the overwhelming amount of information that is presented to all of us in society nowadays, the ability to be both discerning and critical of texts is invaluable, so too is having the confidence and skills to consciously craft your own responses. The English Language course teaches pupils how to analyse, evaluate, and synthesise fiction and non-fiction extracts, while becoming perceptive readers and precise writers themselves.
Pupils take two separate GCSEs and gain two separate GCSE Grades: one in English Language and one in English Literature. However, the teaching of both disciplines is wholly integrated in all English lessons.
English Language GCSE
Examination Board: Cambridge International Education (CIE) 0900
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PAPER 1 |
PAPER 2 |
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Reading (80 marks) |
Directed Writing & Composition (80 marks) |
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Containing a mixture of short and long answer questions, Paper 1 requires pupils to define words, suggest synonyms, explain the effect of language, retrieve and summarise salient points, continuously use their own vocabulary, and write from a given character’s point of view. |
Containing two-equally weighted questions, pupils must firstly use their persuasive and argumentative writing skills to produce a speech, article or letter which use, develops and evaluates information in a given passage or passages. The second questions asks Pupils to produce a narrative or descriptive piece. Generally, pupils are encouraged to undertake the descriptive writing option. |
English Literature
Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel International GCSE
Through the study of multiple literary texts – a Shakespeare play, a novel or short story collection, and a poetry anthology – Pupils’ analytical, essay writing skills are practised and honed. Through to rigorous discussion and debate, Pupils’ communication skills, and capacity to empathise, are strengthened. They also develop the ability to critically evaluate the social, historical, cultural and political contexts surrounding literary texts.
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PAPER 1 |
PAPER 2 |
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Poetry & Modern Prose |
Modern Drama & Literary Heritage Text |
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Section A – Unseen Poetry: one 20-mark essay question exploring the meaning and effects created in a previously unseen poem. Section B – Anthology Poetry: one 30-mark essay question from a choice of two, comparing two poems from the Edexcel GCSE English Anthology Section C – Modern Prose: one 40-mark essay question from a choice of two on each of the set texts. |
Section A – Modern Drama: one 30-mark essay question from a choice of two on each of the set texts. Section B – Literary Heritage Texts: one 30-mark essay question from a choice of two on each of the set texts. |