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English Language and Literature
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Exam board for English Language and Literature
AQA · A-Level
Course 7707
197 syllabus points listed. Open the course to explore its topics.
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About English Language and Literature
What is English Language and Literature?
Studying English Language and Literature at GCSE and A-Level combines the analytical rigour of linguistic study with the creative and critical exploration of literary texts. You will learn to dissect how language works in real-world contexts, from conversations and media to digital communication, while also delving into novels, poetry, and drama from different periods and cultures. This dual focus develops your ability to interpret meaning, evaluate authorial intent, and craft your own writing with precision and flair.
The skills you gain are highly transferable: close reading, evidence-based argument, empathetic understanding of diverse perspectives, and confident communication. These are valued in further education, where English is a facilitating subject for many degrees, and in careers that demand strong written and spoken communication. Whether you pursue law, journalism, education, or marketing, the ability to analyse and produce language effectively will set you apart.
Why Study English Language and Literature?
What You'll Learn
Where English Language and Literature can take you
Where English Language and Literature Can Take You
Career paths and opportunities for English Language and Literature students
Journalist
Journalists must analyse language for bias, craft compelling narratives, and adapt their writing for different audiences. The critical reading and writing skills from English Language and Literature are directly applicable to researching stories, conducting interviews, and meeting tight deadlines. Many journalists also specialise in literary or cultural criticism, where deep textual knowledge is essential.
Secondary School English Teacher
Teaching English requires a thorough understanding of both language and literature, from grammar and phonetics to Shakespeare and contemporary novels. You will inspire students to appreciate texts and express themselves effectively. A degree in English or a related field, followed by a PGCE, is the typical route, and your subject knowledge from A-Level provides a strong foundation.
Copywriter
Copywriters use language to persuade, inform, and engage audiences for brands and organisations. They need to understand tone, register, and rhetorical devices, all of which are central to English Language and Literature. Whether writing adverts, websites, or social media content, the ability to tailor language to a specific audience is key.
Editor
Editors refine written content for clarity, style, and accuracy, often working in publishing, media, or corporate settings. They must have an excellent command of grammar, punctuation, and narrative structure, alongside the ability to critique and improve others' work. Studying English develops the meticulous attention to detail and broad literary knowledge that editing demands.
Speech and Language Therapist
Speech and language therapists assess and treat communication difficulties, requiring a deep understanding of how language is structured and processed. The linguistic components of English Language and Literature, such as phonetics, syntax, and semantics, provide a solid basis for further training. This career combines scientific knowledge with empathetic communication skills.
Common questions
- What is the difference between English Language and English Literature?
- English Language focuses on how language works in real life, including its structure, acquisition, and variation across different groups and contexts. English Literature involves the close study of literary texts, exploring themes, characters, and historical contexts. The combined course bridges both, allowing you to analyse non-fiction and media alongside novels, poetry, and drama.
- Do I need to enjoy reading to do well in English Language and Literature?
- While a love of reading certainly helps, the course also values critical analysis and creative writing. You will engage with a range of texts, including non-fiction and digital communication, so an interest in how language shapes meaning is just as important. Many students discover new genres and authors they enjoy through the course.
- What skills will I gain from studying English Language and Literature?
- You will develop advanced skills in close reading, textual analysis, argument construction, and creative writing. You will also learn to evaluate language use in different contexts, from political speeches to social media, and to communicate your own ideas with clarity and precision. These skills are highly valued by universities and employers.
- How is English Language and Literature assessed at GCSE and A-Level?
- Assessment typically includes a combination of exams and non-exam assessment (coursework). At GCSE, you might sit two exams covering fiction, non-fiction, and unseen texts, plus a spoken language endorsement. At A-Level, there are usually two or three exams and a coursework component where you can choose your own texts for analysis and produce creative writing.
- What careers can English Language and Literature lead to?
- This subject opens doors to careers in journalism, publishing, teaching, marketing, public relations, law, and media production. The strong communication and analytical skills you develop are transferable to almost any industry. Many students also pursue further study in English, linguistics, or creative writing.
- Is English Language and Literature a good choice for STEM students?
- Yes, it complements STEM subjects by strengthening your ability to write reports, explain complex ideas, and think critically. Many universities and employers value a mix of STEM and humanities qualifications, as it demonstrates versatility. The analytical skills from English can also enhance your performance in subjects like history and psychology.
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