GCSE English Language₈₇₀₀

This GCSE specification in English Language will require students to study the following content:

3.1.1 Critical reading and comprehension

• critical reading and comprehension : identifying and interpreting themes, ideas and information in a range of literature and other high-quality writing; reading in different ways for different purposes, and comparing and evaluating the usefulness, relevance and presentation of content for these purposes; drawing inferences and justifying these with evidence; supporting a point of view by referring to evidence within the text; identifying bias and misuse of evidence, including distinguishing between statements that are supported by evidence and those that are not; reflecting critically and evaluatively on text, using the context of the text and drawing on knowledge and skills gained from wider reading; recognising the possibility of different responses to a text
• summary and synthesis : identifying the main theme or themes; summarising ideas and information from a single text; synthesising from more than one text
• evaluation of a writer’s choice of vocabulary, form, grammatical and structural features : explaining and illustrating how vocabulary and grammar contribute to effectiveness and impact, using linguistic and literary terminology accurately to do so and paying attention to detail; analysing and evaluating how form and structure contribute to the effectiveness and impact of a text
• comparing texts: comparing two or more texts critically with respect to the above.

3.1.2 Writing

• producing clear and coherent text : writing effectively for different purposes and audiences: to describe, narrate, explain, instruct, give and respond to information, and argue; selecting vocabulary, grammar, form, and structural and organisational features judiciously to reflect audience, purpose and context; using language imaginatively and creatively; using information provided by others to write in different forms; maintaining a consistent point of view; maintaining coherence and consistency across a text
• writing for impact : selecting, organising and emphasising facts, ideas and key points; citing evidence and quotation effectively and pertinently to support views; creating emotional impact; using language creatively, imaginatively and persuasively, including rhetorical devices (such as rhetorical questions, antithesis, parenthesis).

3.1.3 Spoken language

• presenting information and ideas : selecting and organising information and ideas effectively and persuasively for prepared spoken presentations; planning effectively for different purposes and audiences; making presentations and speeches
• responding to spoken language : listening to and responding appropriately to any questions and feedback
• spoken Standard English : expressing ideas using Standard English whenever and wherever appropriate.