SP English
In S4-S6, learners can study English at National 4, National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher. We also offer Media Studies at National 5, and Literature and Communication at Level 6.
National 4 English is assessed based on coursework and internal assessment, with no final exam. Learners generate evidence of their skills in reading, writing, talking and listening. They also complete an assignment (Added Value Unit) where they bring all of these skills together to respond critically to a text.
In National 5 and Higher English, learners study a range of literature in different genres, including Scottish texts. They develop their ability to understand, analyse and evaluate increasingly detailed and complex texts. The spoken language unit within these courses helps to develop talking and listening skills, while the writing portfolio allows learners to express their ideas, explore their creativity and reflect on their own identity and experiences. In these courses, the spoken language unit is internally assessed, while the writing portfolio is submitted for external assessment. The folio is worth 30% of the overall mark, with the two exam papers in RUAE and Critical Writing are worth 70%. Full course specifications are available at Qualifications Scotland here: English - Course overview and resources - Qualifications Scotland
The Advanced Higher course focuses on the critical and creative study of complex and sophisticated literature and language. It gives candidates opportunities to add specialism, depth and independence to their English and study skills. Coursework assessment includes a writing portfolio (30%) and a dissertation, which is an extended critical response to learners' own choice of literature (30%). The two exam papers are Textual Analysis (20%) and Literary Study (20%). The full course specification is available here: English - Course overview and resources - Qualifications Scotland
The Level 6 Literature and Communication course is an excellent alternative to Higher English for pupils who have completed a course at National 5 level. At level 6, pupils develop their ability to engage with increasingly detailed and complex texts. Unlike Higher English, though, this course is assessed entirely through internal assessment, with no final exam.
