Course overview
As well as providing an excellent knowledge base in English language, the GCSE English course is ideal for students aspiring to achieve a career involving English such as journalism, copywriting, teaching or editing.
Recognition
Study method
- Online
- Blended
- In-class
Duration study load
You will have 1 year to complete the full GCSE English Language course from the date you receive your materials. You will be able to study at your own pace and in your own time. Your only deadlines are the exams held each year, which can be when you are ready.
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this course.
Course features
- Dedicated personal tutor support
- Dedicated student support
- Accreditation
- Assignment marking and feedback
- Free CV critique service
- Free employability guide to help you impress future employers
- Free XO Student Discounts card
- Comprehensive study guide*
- Open Study College pen and highlighter*
- Student study planner*
- Student notebook*
- Document wallet*
* Not included with the online study option
Assessment
To achieve a GCSE in English Language you will be assessed across all units. The examination fees can be added to the cost of this course.
Please note: If you add on exams you will need to sit these exams in either the Birmingham, Bolton, Doncaster or London examination centre. You must be able to travel to the location you choose.
There are 2 paper-based examinations and a spoken language assessment. A more detailed breakdown of the assessment details is provided below.
Course outcome
Upon successful completion of the exams and coursework, you will receive a GCSE in English Language. The awarding body is AQA.
Exam details
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing
What’s assessed
Section A: Reading
- one literature fiction text
Section B: Writing
- descriptive or narrative writing
Assessment
- written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 80 marks
- 50% of GCSE
Questions
Reading (40 marks / 25% – one single text)
- 1 short form question (1 x 4 marks)
- 2 longer form questions (2 x 8 marks)
- 1 extended question (1 x 20 marks)
Writing (40 marks / 25%)
- 1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)
Paper 2: Writer’s Viewpoints and Perspectives
What’s assessed
Section A: Reading
- one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text
Section B: Writing
- writing to present a viewpoint
Assessment
- written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 80 marks
- 50% of GCSE
Questions
Reading (40 marks / 25% – two linked texts)
- 1 short form question (1 x 4 marks)
- 2 longer form questions (1 x 8, 1 x 12 marks)
- 1 extended question (1 x 16 marks)
Writing (40 marks / 25%)
- 1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)
Non-Examination Assessment: Spoken Language
What’s assessed
- presenting
- responding to questions and feedback
- use of standard English
Delivery
This course enables you to study for a GCSE in English Language by distance learning at home or at work. Your course materials will be sent online or by post, so receiving your materials is easy and hassle-free. Full tutor support will be available via email, so help is only a click away!
Subjects
Note: This course contains a practical speaking assessment as well as written exams.
- Common errors
- Punctuation, rules and conventions
- Spelling
- Nouns, adjectives, verbs and adverbs
- Sentence structure
- Paragraphing
- Literature fiction texts
- Planning your writing
- Descriptive writing
- Narrative writing
- Exploring different styles of writing
- Language
- Summary writing
- Choosing a topic
- Presentation techniques
- Responding to questions and feedback
- Tips for the exam
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