English

GCSE / BTEC Equivalent

General Course Information

English is the foundation of all other subjects. It has the power to enable our pupils to become better thinkers, dreamers and more empathetic human beings. The course encourages pupils to read widely, to develop analytical skills, which will enable them to interpret the world around them. Pupils are taught to express themselves imaginatively, confidently, appropriately and creatively, to suit purpose using clear and correct use of English. We have a team of English specialists, with a very strong, supportive team ethic and wide experience and expertise in teaching language in a nurturing manner. Pupils in Years 10 and 11 follow GCSE and functional skills courses in English Language. The courses cover a range of skills: Writing, Reading and Speaking and Listening. Pupils will sit two exams at the end of the course.

Assessment and Feedback

GCSE English Language

Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing – 50% of overall grade

Section A Reading: Students will answer four questions based around one fictional text
Section B Writing: Descriptive or Narrative Writing

What is Assessed?

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: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives – 50% of overall grade

Section A Reading: Students will answer four questions based around one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text
Section B Writing: Writing to Present a Viewpoint

What is assessed?

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 is assessed?

(AO7–AO9)
Presenting
Responding to questions and feedback

How Parents and Carers can Help

Provide a suitable environment for study at home
Help provide essential resources
Monitor both quantity and quality of revision
Direct help – asking questions, testing, helping learning
Reward them
Contact teachers for advice or information as needed
Talk to them – ask what they’re doing, how they’re finding it, if you can help

Contact

david.savage@newdirections.newham.sch.uk

David Savage: david.savage@newdirections.newham.sch.uk

Links to Online Resources

New GCSE English Language AQA Workbook - for the Grade 9-1 Course (includes New
GCSE English Language AQA Revision Guide - for the Grade 9-1 Course

Suggested Revision Websites

BBC Bitesize English Language and Literature
BBC Skillswise can also offer top tips on spelling, grammar and punctuation

We follow the AQA exam board and specification; if you need any additional information please visit their website www.aqa.org.uk.