Language Investigation (2000 words)

Introduction

• discussion of the reasons for choosing the focus of the study
• a hypothesis or research question (where appropriate)
• aim or aims.

Methodology

• an account of the methodology chosen for data selection
• problems (if any) encountered during the collection process.

Analysis

• analysis and interpretation of data using appropriate linguistic concepts
• critical consideration of the relevant concepts / issues surrounding the topic area
• analysis of the effects of key contextual influences upon the data.

Conclusion / Evaluation

• an evaluation of the success of the investigation including issues relating to methodology, interpretation of the conclusions drawn from the data and recommendations for further study (where relevant).

Bibliography

• a list of all sources used (paper and web-based).

Appendices

Appendices - including all data collected.

Media Text

Candidates will use the broad subject focus of their language investigation to produce a media text (e.g. newspaper or magazine article) highlighting the language ideas and issues surrounding their chosen topic. This writing task will allow candidates to develop and build upon their writing and editorial skills from their AS studies, and to demonstrate a conceptualised understanding of the language ideas surrounding their chosen investigation topic. Candidates should be encouraged to use their knowledge as the starting point for their writing, producing a media text for a non-specialist audience. The media text does not have to reflect the findings of the candidate's language investigation. In addition, candidates will be required to use a bibliography to identify their preparatory reading material.
The audience and purpose of the media text will remain the same for each series:

• an informative media text for a non-specialist audience.

Suitable media texts, based on investigation topics, could focus on:

• Men vs. women: who talks the most?
• How do children learn to read? A parents' guide.
• What do your text messages reveal about you?
• From 'perfect' to 'pukka': how the language of food writers has changed over time.

This list is not exhaustive and is intended for exemplification only: candidates should choose their focus for writing with their teacher, based on their investigation topic and their own interests and ideas. As always, centres should contact their coursework advisors if they are unsure about any writing task.
In preparation for this writing candidates should study:

• the structures and conventions of media texts
• the evaluation and synthesis of complex ideas and concepts from a range of specialised source materials
• editorial skills including paraphrase and summary, the control of register and style, including tone and voice
• the re-presentation of complex, specialised source material for a new audience, genre and purpose
• referencing skills.

Assessment

Assessment will be by the production of a written coursework portfolio. The work will be assessed by the candidate's teacher(s) and then moderated by AQA.

• The length of the investigation should be between 1750 and 2500 words, excluding data and appendices.
• The length of the media text should be between 750 and 1000 words.

 The maximum mark for this unit is 80.