specification overview
Edexcel A-Level English Language and Literature (9EL0) is a two-year integrated qualification blending linguistic and literary analysis. Two written papers (Voices in Speech and Writing; Varieties in Language and Literature) are worth 40% each, and a non-exam assessment 'Investigating and Creating Texts' is worth 20%.
subject content
1. Voices in Speech and Writing
Paper 1- Anthology of speech and writing (analysis)
- Study of a drama text focused on how voice creates character
2. Varieties in Language and Literature
Paper 2- Two literary texts (prose fiction anchor + one other) from a chosen theme: Society and the Individual, Love and Loss, Encounters, or Crossing Boundaries
- Analysis of unseen prose non-fiction extract linked to the studied theme
3. Investigating and Creating Texts (NEA)
NEA- Assignment 1: two pieces of original writing (one fiction, one creative non-fiction), 1500-2000 words total
- Assignment 2: one analytical commentary reflecting on the studied texts and the writing pieces, 1000-1250 words
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (Voices in Speech and Writing) | Anthology of speech and writing + drama text focused on voice | 2h 30m | 50 | 40% | Section A comparative essay on unseen extract + anthology text (25 marks); Section B extract-based essay on chosen drama text (25 marks) |
| Paper 2 (Varieties in Language and Literature) | Two literary texts on chosen theme + unseen prose non-fiction | 2h 30m | 50 | 40% | Section A essay on unseen prose non-fiction extract (20 marks); Section B comparative essay on prose fiction anchor text + one other text (30 marks) |
| Non-exam assessment (Investigating and Creating Texts) | Two original writing pieces + analytical commentary | Coursework | 60 | 20% | Assignment 1: two pieces of original writing, one fiction + one creative non-fiction (1500-2000 words total, 36 marks). Assignment 2: analytical commentary reflecting on the studied texts and writing (1000-1250 words, 24 marks) |
The NEA is teacher-assessed and moderated by Pearson. Students choose a topic and two texts (one fiction + one non-fiction), produce two original writing pieces and an analytical commentary reflecting on both texts and their own writing.
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Apply concepts and methods from integrated linguistic and literary study, using terminology and coherent written expression. | 25% |
| AO2 | Analyse ways in which meanings are shaped in texts. | 25% |
| AO3 | Demonstrate understanding of the significance and influence of contexts in which texts are produced and received. | 25% |
| AO4 | Explore connections across texts, informed by linguistic and literary concepts and methods. | 13% |
| AO5 | Demonstrate expertise and creativity in the use of English to communicate in different ways. | 12% |
key tips for success
Start the NEA in year 12
The Investigating and Creating Texts NEA involves two pieces of original writing (fiction + creative non-fiction) plus an analytical commentary. Start scoping the topic and two supporting texts early.
Master the anthology
Paper 1 uses a set anthology of speech and writing. Read the whole thing, mark voice features and connections between pieces.
Practise the integrated approach
This spec expects you to blend linguistic and literary frameworks, not treat them separately. Practise applying both to the same text.
Prepare for unseen non-fiction on Paper 2
Paper 2 Section A is a standalone essay on an unseen prose non-fiction extract linked to your theme, with a choice of four questions and no comparison required (AO1, AO2 and AO3 only). Practise analysing unfamiliar non-fiction under time pressure; the comparison comes in Section B.
Learn linguistic frameworks
Phonology, lexis, grammar, semantics, pragmatics, discourse. AO1 rewards accurate use across both papers and the NEA.
AOs are unevenly weighted
AO1, AO2 and AO3 each carry 25%, AO4 is 13% and AO5 is 12%. Terminology (AO1), meaning analysis (AO2) and context (AO3) dominate the marks; AO5 only really lands on the NEA writing.
Where to next
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