WJEC Eduqas GCE AS in English Language and Literature Description

Course Overview:
The WJEC Eduqas GCE AS in English Language and Literature is designed to encourage students to develop a deeper understanding of how language and literature intertwine. It explores the analysis of literary texts alongside the study of how language is used in different contexts. This qualification helps students develop their skills in both creative and analytical writing while enhancing their appreciation for a range of texts, from pre-1914 poetry to contemporary works.

Course Components:

1. Component 1: Comparative Analysis of Poetry and Unseen Text (40% of qualification)

   • Written Examination (2 hours)

   • Section A: Comparative analysis of poetry and unseen text
     This section asks students to compare one poem from the WJEC English Language and Literature Pre-1914 Poetry Anthology with an unseen text. The focus is on understanding how language, context, and style shape meaning.

   • Section B: Creative writing and commentary
     Students will create two writing pieces, one of which will be based on spoken language, followed by a commentary reflecting on their language choices and the effects created.

2. Component 2: Drama and Non-Literary Text Study (60% of qualification)

   • Written Examination (2 hours)

   • Section A: Post-1900 Drama
     Students will engage critically with a drama text from a list of prescribed post-1900 plays. The focus is on analyzing language and exploring the significance of context and performance.

   • Section B: Non-literary text study
     In this section, students will study one non-literary prose text, analyzing how language choices shape meaning and how contextual factors influence the production and reception of the text.

Key Areas of Study:

• Poetry Analysis: Understanding poetic techniques and their historical development (Section A, Component 1).

• Drama: Engaging with dramatic texts from a critical and linguistic perspective (Section A, Component 2).

• Non-literary Texts: Analyzing non-fiction works, including biographies, autobiographies, and reportage (Section B, Component 2).

• Creative Writing: Encouraging students to produce original texts in different genres, applying linguistic techniques (Section B, Component 1).

Skills Developed:

• Linguistic and Literary Analysis: Students learn to apply linguistic and literary methodologies to dissect and interpret a range of texts.

• Creative Writing: Students develop their creativity through writing tasks, producing work in multiple genres while considering audience, form, and purpose.

• Comparative Skills: The course encourages making connections between texts, analyzing the similarities and differences in language, style, and themes.

Assessment Objectives:

• AO1: Apply appropriate methods from integrated linguistic and literary study, using precise terminology and clear written expression.

• AO2: Analyze how meanings are shaped in texts.

• AO3: Demonstrate understanding of the significance and influence of the contexts in which texts are produced and received.

• AO4: Explore connections across texts, informed by linguistic and literary concepts and methods.

• AO5: Demonstrate expertise and creativity in the use of English to communicate in different ways.

Entry Requirements:

• This qualification is designed for students who have completed qualifications equivalent to Level 2 at Key Stage 4. Students are expected to have a good foundation in literacy skills.

Progression:

• This AS qualification provides a solid foundation for further study in English Language and Literature at A-Level. It also serves as a valuable qualification for students pursuing careers in fields such as teaching, writing, journalism, and media.