GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE (RESIT)

Aims of the course:

• Students who have not achieved at least a grade 4 in either English Language GCSE or English Literature GCSE will be working towards achieving a grade 4 in English Language.

What are lessons like?

• The content of the GCSE English Language papers are covered in a year. The lessons are taught in small groups by experienced teachers with regular opportunities for assessment.

What are exams like?

Students will complete two examination papers:

• Paper 1 – Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing. Read a short fiction extract, answer four reading questions to analyse the writer’s methods, write a description or narrative.
• Paper 2 – Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives. Read two non-fiction texts, answer four reading questions to analyse and compare the texts, write a non- fiction text (letter, leaflet, article, essay or speech).

Examinations will take place in November for a small number of students with results published in January. The majority of students will sit their English Language examination in June with results published in August.

Recommended prior learning/entry requirements:

• Any student who has not attained at least a grade 4 in either English Language GCSE or English Literature GCSE will need to be working towards achieving a Grade 4 in English Language.

Recommended additional reading:

• It is strongly recommended that students read regularly and as widely as possible from a range of fiction and non-fiction texts.

Where can this course lead to?

• GCSE English is usually required by Universities and employers. A minimum of a grade 4 in GCSE English language or literature is an essential requirement for most level 3 courses at Sixth Form.

Why study resit English at St Mary’s College Sixth Form?

• We are a supportive department with small class sizes and an impressive track record. Students receive a high level of contact hours with specialised English teachers as well as additional opportunities for revision.