New GCEs for 2008



GCE English Language B (2705)

AS outline

At AS, this specification will enable candidates to explore the fundamental structures and functions of writing, speech and conversation and how language functions in different social contexts.

The AS specification has 2 units:

Unit 1: Categorising Texts

Topic list

  • Exploring and understanding spoken and written language in use
  • The roles of purposes, audiences and contexts and the impact of these pressures upon language production and reception
  • An analysis and investigation of a variety of extracts taken from everyday sources.

Assessment

External Exam: 2 hours

Weighting:60% of total AS / 30% of total A Level marks

This unit covers the introductory aspects of the study of language, using a variety of texts for the basis of this study. In addition it focuses on three specific social contexts: Language and Power, Language and Gender and Language and Technology.


Unit 2: Creating Texts

Topic list

  • Development of personal writing expertise through individual coursework
  • Writing to entertain, to persuade, to inform and to instruct
  • The use of register and style; characteristics of genres and sub-genres; the impact of language choices (lexis and grammar) and discourse strategies; the purposes and skills of planning, drafting and redrafting; the use of primary sources and of clear referencing of these materials; skills associated with analysing and reviewing the writing process and the reception of their own texts.

Assessment

Coursework

Weighting:40% of total AS / 20% of total A Level marks

In this unit candidates are encouraged to develop their own writing skills, producing writing in different genres for different audiences and purposes.





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