PC Language: a ‘change’ and ‘diversity’ topic

PC (or ‘politically correct’) language is a topic in English Language A Level that rather nicely illustrates how artificial it is to separate ideas into topics like ‘change’ and ‘diversity’. But, of course, we have to draw lines for the purposes of curriculum organisation. What this actually means for you as a student (or a… More PC Language: a ‘change’ and ‘diversity’ topic

Recommended Resource (for English Lang A Level): Lexis Podcast

This excellent linguistics podcast started up this year and, at the time of posting, has had 8 episodes. It features four linguistics enthusiasts: Matthew Butler, Lisa Casey, Dan Clayton and Jacky Glancey, discussing language issues in the news and recent research. Most episodes have included an interview with an academic linguist about a specific topic… More Recommended Resource (for English Lang A Level): Lexis Podcast

Textual Anaysis: Why Use a ‘Meaning First’ Approach?

In various A-Level English Language tasks, you’re asked to analyse text. This may be to comment on the meanings and representations created within it, or it may be in relation to a particular topic, such as child language acquisition or ethnicity. Whatever the task is, many students are tempted to jump on features that they… More Textual Anaysis: Why Use a ‘Meaning First’ Approach?

Why can’t I write ‘it makes the reader want to read on’ – and what on earth do I write instead?

As teachers, we’re pre-programmed to sigh – or roll our eyes – when students write or say that fateful phrase ‘it makes the reader read on’. But here’s the thing: when we’re talking about things like chapter ends, cliffhangers and clever titles, writers DO choose things to keep us reading. After all ‘page-turner’ or ‘I… More Why can’t I write ‘it makes the reader want to read on’ – and what on earth do I write instead?

Discourses: How do I write about Language for a non-specialist audience?

In several of the A-Level English Language specifications, you are required to write about Language topics for a non-specialist or general audience. In the specification I know best, AQA, this comes under the heading of ‘Language Discourses’, because it is the place – in the world and specifically the media – where language is discussed.… More Discourses: How do I write about Language for a non-specialist audience?