How to Choose Between English Language and Literature at A Level: A Comparison of Course Content, Skills Required, and Where Each Subject Can Lead Post-16

11/04/2025 / Science Tuition

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For students with a flair for English, the opportunity to continue the subject at A Level is often a welcome one. However, deciding between English Language and English Literature can prove a little tricky. Both courses are highly regarded, both develop strong communication and analytical skills, and both can lead to a wide array of future academic and career options. But they are, in many ways, quite different in content, assessment style, and the types of skills they emphasise.

In this guide, we aim to clarify those differences, offering a straightforward comparison to help students – and their parents – make a confident and informed decision.

A UK-qualified and experienced English tutor can provide personalised guidance based on your child’s interests, strengths, and learning preferences, helping you make an informed decision about whether English Language or English Literature is the most suitable A Level choice.

Let’s begin by looking at what each subject actually involves.

Understanding the Course Content

English Language

English Language A Level is fundamentally about understanding how language works in real life, in all its rich variety and complexity. It moves away from the study of fictional texts and instead encourages students to explore how people use language to communicate in everyday situations. This includes analysing written and spoken texts drawn from a range of contexts, such as political speeches, newspaper editorials, advertisements, transcripts of casual conversation, social media posts, podcasts, and even graffiti. Students learn to consider the purpose, audience, and mode of communication, looking closely at how language reflects and shapes the world around us.

A significant part of the course is dedicated to understanding variation in language—how it changes according to region, gender, age, occupation, and social group. For instance, students might examine how teenagers use slang, how workplace jargon functions, or how the media portrays different dialects and accents. Another fascinating area of study is language acquisition, where students investigate how children learn to speak and write, and what this reveals about the structure and development of language.

Students are introduced to key linguistic frameworks and terminology, enabling them to deconstruct texts in a structured, analytical way. This scientific approach to language analysis is often appealing to students who enjoy detail and precision. In addition, there’s usually a strong creative element, where students have the opportunity to produce original writing in a variety of forms—such as short stories, opinion pieces, speeches, or articles. These are often accompanied by reflective commentaries that explain the stylistic choices made and link back to linguistic theories.

Overall, the English Language A Level provides a versatile and engaging programme of study, ideal for students who are curious about how language operates in the real world, and who enjoy both analytical and creative thinking. It is particularly well-suited to those who like to explore real-life issues through the lens of communication and who appreciate the nuances of how we use words to influence, inform, and connect with others.

English Literature

English Literature A Level, by contrast, centres on the in-depth study and appreciation of literary texts—namely plays, novels, and poetry. The course invites students to immerse themselves in a diverse selection of literature, spanning historical periods, cultures, and styles. This typically includes texts from major literary periods such as the Renaissance, Romanticism, and Modernism, allowing students to build a broad and rich understanding of the literary canon. Classic authors such as Shakespeare, Austen, and Chaucer often sit alongside modern voices like Carol Ann Duffy, Kazuo Ishiguro, or Tennessee Williams, creating a dynamic and thought-provoking reading list.

Students engage critically with these texts, developing skills in close reading and analysis. They learn to unpick layers of meaning, consider the significance of language, structure, and form, and explore how texts interact with their social, historical, and political contexts. Much of the work involves interpreting key themes—such as identity, power, morality, and conflict—and evaluating how different writers address these universal human concerns. There is a strong emphasis on building independent interpretations, supported by textual evidence and thoughtful argumentation.

A core feature of the course is the way it encourages students to view literature as a conversation across time and genre. They might compare how two writers present the theme of love or justice or examine how literary works reflect or challenge the values of the societies in which they were written. This often involves applying critical theories or perspectives—such as feminism, Marxism, or post-colonialism—which help students see texts in new and layered ways.

In addition to reading and analysis, students are expected to write extended essays, construct coherent arguments, and express their ideas with clarity and sophistication. These skills are assessed both in timed exam conditions and through coursework, which often allows more freedom in text selection and essay focus. The coursework component can be especially rewarding, as it gives students a chance to pursue a personal interest and engage with literature more creatively and independently.

Ultimately, English Literature A Level is an enriching course that cultivates a deep appreciation of literary art and its cultural impact. It is particularly well-suited to students who enjoy reading widely, thinking critically, and reflecting on the human experience through stories and poetic expression.

Skills Required and Developed

Though both subjects develop written and verbal communication, the skills involved do vary.

English Language leans towards analytical thinking, particularly in the form of dissecting how language choices impact meaning or reflect context. Students must pay close attention to detail and structure, and there’s a technical element involved – including grammar, syntax, and language frameworks. It also suits students with a creative streak, as many courses include opportunities for original writing in different genres and styles.

English Literature, on the other hand, requires a high level of engagement with reading and critical analysis. Students must be able to interpret complex texts, argue for specific interpretations, and reference evidence with precision. The ability to empathise with characters, to place a text within its broader social or historical setting, and to construct well-organised essays are all crucial. It’s a subject that rewards thoughtful reflection and the ability to think independently.

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Assessment Differences

Both subjects typically include a mix of final examinations and coursework, though the balance may vary depending on the exam board. In A Level English Language, for example, AQA’s specification includes a ‘Language in Action’ component, where students complete an independent language investigation of around 2,000 words, alongside a piece of original writing and a 750-word commentary. This coursework element makes up 20% of the final grade. The examinations usually involve analysing unseen texts and exploring various language concepts.

In English Literature, coursework also plays a key role. Exam boards like Edexcel require students to write a comparative essay on two texts of their own choice. This part of the course is guided by specific assessment objectives and helps students develop independent critical responses. The examinations typically involve extended essay responses on set texts and unseen poetry or prose, requiring students to analyse literary techniques and construct well-supported interpretations under timed conditions.

Where Each Subject Can Lead

A Level English Language is excellent preparation for degrees and careers in linguistics, communication, journalism, speech and language therapy, teaching, and marketing. Its emphasis on real-world application of language also makes it relevant for media and social sciences.

A Level English Literature is a traditional academic subject, highly regarded by universities. It provides a solid foundation for degrees in English, law, history, drama, creative writing, and even politics. The critical thinking and argumentative skills developed through the course are valued in careers such as publishing, education, public relations, and the civil service.

Can You Take Both?

Yes, some students choose to take both English Language and English Literature at A Level. While this can be a rewarding combination, allowing for a broad exploration of the subject, it does come with a significant workload. Both require substantial reading, essay writing, and independent study. For students who truly enjoy English and are prepared to manage their time well, it can be a powerful academic pairing.

How to Make the Right Choice

The decision should come down to interest, aptitude, and future plans. Does your child enjoy reading novels, plays, and poetry, and engaging deeply with literature and its themes? Or are they more interested in how people use language in daily life, the science behind communication, and developing their own writing voice?

A conversation with teachers, as well as looking through past papers or course handbooks, can provide further insight. It’s also helpful to think about future goals – whether a student is more drawn to creative industries, education, social sciences, or humanities.

Whichever path they choose, both English Language and English Literature will equip students with essential skills for further study and the workplace. These subjects nurture clarity of thought, expression, and critical insight – all of which are valued in every profession.

Get Expert Support: Request a Private English Tutor Today

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