The Higher, Intermediate II and Intermediate I

The course is a combination of both internal assessment [by your classroom teacher] and external assessment [a traditional unseen examination]. You will have to pass both the internal and external assessments to be awarded a ‘Higher’ certificate.

The course is designed around three units; each designed to teach the core skills of understanding, analysis and evaluation.

The Three Units of Assessment

1.      Unit One – Language study

You will be studying different aspects of language through a variety of non-fiction texts to develop close reading skills.

·         You are required to pass one internally assessed interpretation [National assessment Bank material- N.A.B.] consisting of one passage.

·         You are required to produce an extended piece of written work.

2.      Unit Two – Literary Study

You will study literature in class.

·         You will be required to pass one internally assessed Textual Analysis [the interpretation of a previously unseen piece of literature. Either poetry, drama or prose].

3.      Unit Three – Personal Study

You will study a piece of literature of your choice.

·         This will be assessed internally.

The External Examination

The external examination consists of two papers.

Language Paper. [Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes] 50 marks

Paper I:

·         One interpretation. This will comprise of two thematically linked passages with questions asking you to show understanding, to analyse language and style and to evaluate each piece. [50]

Literature paper. [Duration: 1hour 30 minutes] 60 marks

Paper II:

·         Two critical essays. These essays will be based on texts you have studied in class. [60]

The course is a demanding test of your organisational and intellectual skills. Good luck.