English language GCSE

What is the course about?

This course is for anyone who already has a good level of English but wishes to develop this to GCSE level and gain the qualification. You will read and be assessed on high-quality, challenging texts from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. You will focus on content, structure and the quality of language. The texts will range across different genres and types and will support you in developing your own writing by providing effective models.

What will we cover?

This course prepares you to pass the AQA English Language GCSE. We will cover how to :

• read fluently and understand a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, including literature and literary non-fiction as well as other writing such as reviews and journalism
• read and evaluate texts critically and make comparisons between texts
• summarise and synthesise information or ideas from texts
• use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve your own writing
• write effectively and coherently using Standard English appropriately
• use grammar correctly and punctuate and spell accurately
• acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology, and linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language
• listen to and understand spoken language and use spoken Standard English effectively.

More details can be found here: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/gcse/english-language-8700/subject-content.

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

• have sufficient reading and writing skills to do well on the English GCSE
• have a level of English to work and study in a range of institutions
• read fluently and respond with good understanding to a wide range of texts from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, including literature and literary non-fiction as well as other writing such as reviews and journalism
• read and evaluate texts critically and make comparisons between texts
• summarise and synthesise information or ideas from texts
• use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their own writing
• write effectively and coherently using Standard English appropriately
• use grammar correctly and punctuate and spell accurately
• acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology, and linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language
• listen to and understand spoken language and use spoken Standard English effectively.

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

This is an accredited GCSE course. You must sit the exams and complete the qualification. If you do not wish to do the exam, please do a non-accredited course.
You need to have English at least at Level 2 Functional skills in order to be able to complete the course in one year. You should already be reading English fiction and also have some analytical skills. You also need to be able to commit to attendance every week and have the time, means and dedication to work outside the classroom. You will need to do an initial pre-course assessment before being accepted onto this course and have passed the English Language GCSE (Introduction) course. Those who do not yet have the required skills will be referred to the ‘Getting Ready for English Language GCSE’ course or other suitable courses.

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

You will learn in a supportive and welcoming environment. The tutor will help you discover rules and features of English. You will work on your own and with other students. You will learn in a step by step manner so you can complete challenging tasks in enjoyable and relaxing ways. Your tutor will also work with you individually so you know how to improve. You will need to do work outside the classroom and use Google Classroom to help you.

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

You will need a lined A4 writing pads, pen, a folder for assignments and any other appropriate stationery. You will be expected to maintain a course folder of handouts and your assignments. You will also submit work through Google Classroom so you will need access to a computer. If you are on a low income you may be able to apply to the Bursary Fund for help with the costs of the course (e.g. fares, books, materials).

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

There are many courses you can do before, during or after this course which will help you gain a good grade on your GCSE These include: • Communication skills: grammar foundation (level 1-2)
• Communication skills: develop your English for social media - blogs, vlogs and TikTok (level 1-level 2)
• Communication skills: develop your English for social media - podcasting (level 1-level 2)
• Communication skills: develop your English for social media - website writing (level 1-level 2)
• Develop your confidence in writing: sentences, grammar and punctuation in everyday writing (level 1-2)

There also many maths, employability and digital skills courses you can do. These include:
• Essential digital skills for work (Level 1)
• Award in Digital and IT Skills: word-processing, spreadsheets, presentations and databases (level 2)
• Maths skills for life and work - getting ready for functional skills (foundation 1)
• Maths for life and work (level 1)
• Maths functional skills (level 1) and (level 2)
• Maths foundation / Higher GCSE

For more information, talk with your tutor or contact universal.skills@citylit.ac.uk / 020 4582 0423.