GCSE English Language primarily focuses on improving students’ reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. This qualification is highly valued across the UK, with many universities requiring GCSE English as part of their entry requirements.
English Language Topics Covered
- Creative reading
- Expressive writing
- Fictional works
- Descriptive and narrative composition
- Long-form writing
- Informational texts
- Literary non-fiction
- Proper use of standard English
- Public speaking and presentation
- Engaging with questions and feedback
GCSE English Language Exam Structure
All three major exam boards have two papers for the English Language GCSE, along with a Spoken Language Endorsement. Interestingly, this spoken language component does not contribute to the final GCSE grade – it carries 0% weighting. Instead, students receive a separate grade of Pass, Merit, or Distinction based on their performance.
Exam Board Breakdown
- AQA
- Paper 1: Exploration in Creative Reading & Writing
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Marks: 80
- Weighting: 50% of the GCSE
- Paper 2: Writer’s Viewpoints and Perspectives
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Marks: 80
- Weighting: 50% of the GCSE
- Paper 1: Exploration in Creative Reading & Writing
- OCR
- Paper 1: Non-fiction Texts
- Paper 2: Literary Texts
- Both papers are:
- 2 hours long
- Worth 80 marks each
- Each contributes 50% to the overall GCSE
- Both papers are:
- Pearson Edexcel
- Paper 1: Fiction & Imaginative Writing
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Marks: 64
- Weighting: 40% of the GCSE
- Paper 2: Non-Fiction & Transactional Writing
- Duration: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Marks: 96
- Weighting: 60% of the GCSE
- Paper 1: Fiction & Imaginative Writing
How To Apply
To apply for the Functional Skills English Language GCSE training course in the North West, simply complete our enquiry form with your contact details. Once submitted, we’ll get in touch to confirm your eligibility and guide you through the enrollment process.
If you have any questions regarding our training courses or need more information, feel free to call us on 01204 66 8811 – we’re here to help!