The Cambridge International AS Level English Language and Literature (8695)

The Cambridge International AS Level English Language and Literature (8695) syllabus combines the study of both linguistic and literary aspects of texts. It aims to develop students' ability to analyze and appreciate a wide range of written and spoken forms of English, while also encouraging creative and analytical writing. This course is ideal for students who are passionate about literature but also interested in how language functions in various contexts.

Key Areas of Study:

1. Literary Analysis:

  • Study of Prose, Poetry, and Drama:
    • Students explore texts from different genres, periods, and cultures.
    • Close reading and analysis of literary devices such as imagery, symbolism, metaphor, structure, and tone.
    • Exploring themes such as love, conflict, identity, nature, and power in literature.
  • Contextual Understanding:
    • Consideration of the social, historical, and cultural contexts in which texts are produced and received.
    • How context influences the writer's purpose and the reader’s interpretation of texts.

2. Language in Context:

  • Textual Analysis:
    • Analysis of non-literary texts such as advertisements, speeches, editorials, and essays.
    • Focus on how language is used to convey meaning, persuade, inform, or entertain in specific contexts.
  • Language Varieties:
    • Exploration of different registers and styles, including formal and informal language.
    • Consideration of how language varies according to audience, purpose, and context.

3. Writing Skills:

  • Creative Writing:
    • Students are encouraged to develop their own writing in various forms, including descriptive, narrative, and discursive writing.
    • Focus on crafting compelling stories, vivid descriptions, and clear arguments.
  • Directed Writing:
    • Writing with a specific audience and purpose in mind, such as writing an article, speech, or letter.
    • Transforming or reworking text into a different form, adapting style, tone, and register accordingly.

4. Spoken Language:

  • Spoken Texts:
    • Study of how language functions in spoken discourse, including conversation, interviews, and public speaking.
    • Analysis of spoken language features like intonation, stress, fillers, and interruptions.
  • Speech Analysis:
    • Exploring rhetorical techniques in speeches, such as repetition, persuasive language, and emotive appeals.
    • Understanding how speakers use language to influence, motivate, or inform their audience.

Assessment:

Paper 1: Poetry, Prose, and Drama (50%)

  • Section A: Poetry and Prose:
    • Students answer on set poems and prose texts from the syllabus, focusing on how language, structure, and form create meaning.
  • Section B: Drama:
    • Analysis of a set drama text, with questions focused on character, theme, and dramatic techniques.

Paper 2: Writing (50%)

  • Section A: Imaginative Writing:
    • Students write a piece of creative or descriptive writing based on a prompt or stimulus provided.
  • Section B: Writing for an Audience:
    • Directed writing tasks, such as writing an article, speech, or formal letter, adapting language and style to fit the context.

Skills Developed:

  • Critical Analysis: Students learn to critically analyze both literary and non-literary texts, focusing on language, structure, and meaning.
  • Creative and Discursive Writing: The syllabus encourages students to develop strong creative writing skills and adapt their writing for different audiences and purposes.
  • Contextual Awareness: Students build an understanding of how context influences both the creation and interpretation of texts.
  • Effective Communication: Improvement in both written and spoken communication, particularly in adapting language for various contexts.

Career Pathways:

This course provides a strong foundation for careers in journalism, media, teaching, advertising, public relations, and creative writing. It also serves as excellent preparation for further studies in English, humanities, and communication.

The AS Level English Language and Literature syllabus is designed to foster a deep appreciation for the richness of literary works while also providing a strong understanding of the functional aspects of language. It develops critical thinking and communication skills that are valuable across a wide range of academic disciplines and professions.

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