English Language A-Level
Prescriptivism
What Prescriptivism means in English Language A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Prescriptivism
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
The belief that there is a 'correct' and 'incorrect' way to use language, often based on standard English grammar and historical rules.
The attitude or belief that one variety of a language is superior to others and should be promoted as the 'correct' form.
The attitude that there is a strict set of rules for 'correct' language use, and that variations are 'wrong' or 'lazy'.
The attitude that there is a correct, standard form of language that should be maintained and protected from change.
The attitude that there is a 'correct' standard of English and that variation is incorrect or inferior.
Topics that use Prescriptivism
- Component 1 – Overview (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Component 1: Language Variation (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Component 3 – Topic area: Language and Journalism (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Component 3 – Topic area: Language and Power (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Component 3 – Topic area: Regional Language Variation (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Descriptivism
- Sociolect
- Register
- Standardisation
- Syntax
- Dialect Levelling
- Discourse Marker
- Synthetic Personalisation
Using Prescriptivism in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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