Edexcel International A Level (IAL) English Language specification (YEN01)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) English Language 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 International A Level (IAL) English Language 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 International A Level (IAL) English Language (YEN01) 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
The Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in English Language is designed to develop students’ ability to analyse and produce a range of spoken, written and multimodal texts in context. It encourages learners to explore how language is shaped by audience, purpose, genre and mode, and how it reflects identity, culture and society. The qualification builds linguistic knowledge and critical understanding of language structures and use, fostering skills in close analysis, comparative evaluation and original writing. It supports progression to further study in English or related disciplines and equips learners with transferable communication and analytical abilities.
Subject content breakdown
1. Language: Context and Identity
- Exploration of how language varies according to context
- Influence of audience, purpose, mode and field
- Study of identity in texts, including representations of self and others
- Analysis of language choices and their effects
2. Language in Transition
- Language change over time from 1500 to present
- Analysis of historical texts and linguistic features
- Exploration of contemporary language variation
- Study of attitudes to language change and variation
3. Crafting Language
- Study of form, style, genre and narrative voice
- Production of original writing for different purposes
- Commentary and reflection on writing choices and techniques
4. Investigating Language
- Independent research on a chosen linguistic topic
- Data collection and methodical analysis
- Application of linguistic frameworks and terminology
- Evaluation of findings and presentation of a clear argument
Assessment structure
Unit 1: Language: Context and Identity
- Written exam: 2 hours 15 minutes
- 60 marks
- Two sections: comparative analysis and directed writing
- Analysis of unseen texts and creation of related text
Unit 2: Language in Transition
- Written exam: 2 hours 15 minutes
- 60 marks
- Two sections: analysis of language change and comparative evaluation
- Includes historical and contemporary texts
Unit 3: Crafting Language
- Coursework: internally assessed and externally moderated
- 60 marks
- Two writing pieces in different forms and genres
- One commentary reflecting on writing techniques
Unit 4: Investigating Language
- Coursework: internally assessed and externally moderated
- 60 marks
Independent investigation and extended analytical writing
- IAS qualification: Units 1 and 2
- IAL qualification: All four units
- Grading: A–E (IAS), A*–E (IAL)
- Assessment availability: January and June
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) English Language 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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