English language GCSE

What is the course about?

This course is for you if you want to extend the range of your reading, writing and speaking abilities. It will enable you to gain a qualification either to improve your job prospects or to meet the entry requirements for a teaching qualification. It follows the AQA syllabus and the qualification is gained through a combination of controlled assessments and examination.

What will we cover?

- types of writing: autobiography; creative writing; argument; persuasion; analysis
- writing skills: sentence structure; spelling; punctuation; paragraphing; developing vocabulary
- reading: a broad range of non-fiction including media texts; autobiography; texts from different
cultures and traditions; argument, persuasion and analysis; a novel; a Shakespeare play and a
selection of poetry
- reading skills: comprehension of surface meaning and underlying implications; evaluating what is
being said and how the writer manipulates the reader; understanding unusual words, images and
figures of speech.
- speaking and listening skills: giving and understanding information; group discussion; developing vocabulary; oral
presentations.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- read and discuss a variety of texts with confidence and understanding
- express yourself clearly orally and in writing
- gain an English GCSE qualification.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

English GCSE is a level two qualification. Although there are no formal entry requirements for the course, you will need to be able to read and respond to straightforward texts and communicate information and opinions clearly in writing.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Classes will consist of skills input from the course tutor, discussion of reading materials, debates, writing exercises, student presentations and small group work. The teaching will be activity-based and there will be regular controlled assessments which will be assessed by the course tutor and will contribute towards your final grade. In the final term, classes will mainly consist of exam preparation. You should plan to do 4 - 5 hours homework each week. Individual tutorial sessions are available before the classes.
Learning and dyslexia support are available through the Learning Centre.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Accreditation (exam) cost is included in the course fee.
You will need to buy copies of the set text and Shakespeare play although there should also be copies available in the library. Videos of the Shakespeare play can be watched in the Learning Centre. A substantial amount of course material will be available in photocopied handouts but you will need to supply of A4 paper, pens, a folder for assignments and any other appropriate stationery.
If you are on a low income you may be able to apply to the Access Fund for help with the costs of the course (e.g. fares, books, materials). Help with childcare costs is also available. Phone the City Lit Information and Advice Shop on (telephone temporarily unavailable) for more information.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The course can be a self-contained educational experience. English GCSE is also a useful basic qualification that may be required by an employer. It could also give you the confidence to apply for a higher level course in further education, such as an Access to Higher Education programme, an A level or a vocational qualification. For anyone wanting to do a B.Ed. Degree or PGCE, English GCSE is one of the entry requirements.