Edexcel A Level English Language & Literature specification (9EL0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel A Level English Language & Literature exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel A Level English Language & Literature specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel A Level English Language & Literature (9EL0) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
This A Level English Language & Literature qualification from Pearson Edexcel enables students to study language and literature as an integrated discipline. It fosters the application of linguistic and literary concepts in reading, writing, and research. Students analyse a broad range of texts across genres and periods, explore how meaning is created, and develop their skills in original writing and critical commentary. The course encourages independent, synoptic learning and provides strong foundations for progression into higher education and careers in writing, media, and communication fields:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
Component 1: Voices in Speech and Writing
- Comparing voices: Analysis of unseen 20th- or 21st-century text paired with a set anthology piece
- Drama study: One prescribed drama text, focusing on characterisation and representation of voice
- Emphasis on representation, identity, form, and context
Component 2: Varieties in Language and Literature
- Thematic study of one from four options: Society and the Individual, Love and Loss, Encounters, or Crossing Boundaries
- Each theme includes a prose fiction anchor text and one other text (drama, prose or poetry)
- Unseen non-fiction text analysis linked to theme
- Comparative study of two studied literary texts exploring theme-based connections
Non-exam assessment: Investigating and Creating Texts
- Free-choice of topic; study one fiction and one non-fiction text
- Assignment 1: two original writing pieces (one fiction, one creative non-fiction)
- Assignment 2: analytical commentary explaining linguistic and literary choices and influence of studied texts
- Encourages stylistic imitation, genre awareness, contextual exploration and independent enquiry:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Assessment structure
Component 1: Voices in Speech and Writing (9EL0/01)
- Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
- 50 marks; 40% of A Level
- Section A: comparative essay (anthology + unseen extract)
- Section B: extract-based essay on one prescribed drama text
- Open book (drama text only)
Component 2: Varieties in Language and Literature (9EL0/02)
- Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
- 50 marks; 40% of A Level
- Section A: unseen prose non-fiction essay (linked to theme)
- Section B: comparative essay on two studied literary texts
- Open book
Component 3: Investigating and Creating Texts (9EL0/03)
- Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated
- 60 marks; 20% of A Level
- Assignment 1: two original writing pieces (1500–2000 words total)
- Assignment 2: analytical commentary (1000–1250 words)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel A Level English Language & Literature isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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