GCSE English Language (2017)
Following the Minister of Education’s announcement, on 6 January 2021, that all GCSE, AS and A2 exams due to take place in January, February, May and June will be cancelled, we are working to update our subject areas as soon as possible. In the meantime, should you have any queries, please email CCEA Helpline [email protected].
Please note: a Specification Addendum is in place for the 2020/2021 academic year for those candidates completing their course in Summer 2021. View Specification Addendum.
The CCEA GCSE English Language specification encourages students to explore and respond, both imaginatively and critically, to a variety of texts.
Students use reading to improve their writing and spoken language skills. They also enhance their understanding of how language variations relate to identity and cultural diversity.
This specification develops key transferable skills, such as selecting and adapting speech and writing to suit different situations and audiences.
The specification provides a sound basis for progression to further study, higher education or employment.
This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Language and Literacy Area of Learning.
This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment before the end of the course.
The specification has four units:
- Unit 1: Writing for Purpose and Audience and Reading to Access Non-fiction and Media Texts
- Unit 2: Speaking and Listening
- Unit 3: Studying Spoken and Written Language
- Unit 4: Personal or Creative Writing and Reading Literary and Non-fiction Texts.
Current Specification
Skills developed through our GCSE English Language
This specification supports the Northern Ireland Curriculum at Key Stage 4 and gives students further opportunities to achieve their potential and develop skills for life.
These skills include functional and creative writing, reading and evaluating the written word, and using the spoken word to communicate precisely and effectively. Students also develop skills that will help them to manage information effectively, work independently and work with others.
As a compulsory subject at GCSE level, this qualification helps to equip students for many different career pathways.
For more information on this specification contact:
Popular Learning Resources
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Supporting the Curriculum and Assessment in 2020/21
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