top of page

Key Stage 4 English Curriculum: 2022-23

 

Curriculum Aims

 

The aim of GCSE study in KS4 is to begin to integrate the skills required to succeed at GCSE level by introducing students to higher level texts and approaches. Analytical and critical approaches will be integrated and taught. A strong emphasis on literacy, securing basic skills of spelling, punctuation and grammar will be maintained.

​

Curriculum Experience

All students will access a rich, challenging GCSE curriculum. Most classes will contain a varied range of needs and prior-attainment, therefore teaching will be adapted to ensure that all students are invested in their learning and being stretched to achieve their full potential. Lessons will maximise opportunities for students to develop their spoken language skills through debate, discussions and presentations in preparation for the Spoken Language Assessment, which is a requirement of the English Language GCSE.

​

GCSE English Language

The aim of the GCSE English Language course is to develop the skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. Students will be taught to communicate accurately, appropriately and effectively in speech and writing and to understand and respond imaginatively to what they hear, read and experience. A range of texts (fiction and non -fiction) and media will be drawn upon.

 

Curriculum Content

Pearson Edexcel GCSE English Language 2.0

​

Paper 1: Non-Fiction Texts (50% of GCSE)  

  • Two sources: two examples of 19th century texts, such as newspaper and magazine articles and reviews; instructional texts; speeches; journals and reference book extracts

  • Transactional writing: a choice of 2 tasks in response to written prompts

  • Written exam 1 hour and 55 minutes

 

Paper 2: Contemporary Texts (50% of GCSE)

  • Two texts: two examples of 20th/21st century texts, such as novels; autobiographies; biographies; memoirs; letters; speeches and travel writing

  • Writing to present a viewpoint

  • Written exam 1 hours and 55 minutes

 

Non -examination Assessment: Spoken Language

  • Prepared spoken presentation in a formal setting

  • Responding to questions and feedback

  • Use of Standard English

  • Separate endorsement (0% weighting of GCSE)

 

GCSE English Literature

The aim of the GCSE English Literature course is to develop informed and critical responses to a range of texts in the form of prose, poetry, and drama. Students will experience and explore different times, cultures, viewpoints and genres as found in literary texts.

 

Curriculum Content

Pearson Edexcel GCSE English Literature

​

Paper 1: Shakespeare and Post-1914 Literature

  • Shakespeare play (Romeo and Juliet)

  • Post-1914 drama (An Inspector Calls)

  • Written exam 1 hour and 45 minutes (50% of GCSE)

 

Paper 2:  19th Century Novel and Poetry  

  • 19th Century Novel (A Christmas Carol)

  • Anthology poetry (Conflict section)

  • Unseen poetry

  • Written exam 2 hours and 15 minutes (50% of GCSE)    

 

All students will study for entry in BOTH English Language and English Literature examinations.

​

​

​

bottom of page