The Language Investigation is a 2,000-word independent research project (excluding data) that allows students to explore an area of individual interest in language use. Students must identify a research topic, collect their own data (spoken, written, or multimodal), apply appropriate linguistic methodologies, and evaluate their findings in relation to relevant concepts and issues.
Language in action is the non-exam assessment (NEA) component of AQA A-Level English Language, worth 20% of the total A-level. It requires you to produce a piece of original writing (e.g., a magazine article, a speech, a blog, or a short story) and a reflective commentary analysing your own language choices. This component bridges theory and practice, allowing you to apply linguistic concepts such as pragmatics, discourse structure, and register to a real-world text you have created yourself.
The NEA is your chance to demonstrate creativity and analytical skill simultaneously. You must select a genre and audience, then craft a text that meets the conventions of that genre while incorporating specific language features. The commentary (750–1000 words) should explain why you made particular choices, linking them to linguistic frameworks (e.g., lexis, grammar, phonology) and theories (e.g., Grice's maxims, Labov's narrative categories). This task is crucial because it shows examiners you can move from being a consumer of language to a producer, and that you understand the effects of your choices on a reader.
Language in action fits into the wider A-Level by consolidating knowledge from all other topics: language and power, language and gender, child language acquisition, and language change. For example, if you write a persuasive speech, you might draw on theories of power (e.g., Fairclough) or use rhetorical devices studied in the language and power topic. The NEA also develops transferable skills in planning, drafting, and self-reflection, which are valuable for university and beyond.
Key skills and knowledge for this topic
Key points examiners look for in your answers
Expert advice for maximising your marks
Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers
Common questions students ask about this topic
How questions on this topic are typically asked
Practice questions tailored to this topic