What kind of Student would English suit?

Anyone who has ambitions for a career in creative writing, politics, or entertainment. 

English also forms a key part of journalism courses and good presentation skills will be required for courses in history, politics, law and almost all other courses. 

Students seeking to develop and improve their communication skills. 

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Recommendations/Tips 

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It is recommended that a student has achieved at least a grade (C) at Junior Certificate higher level, to continue into higher-level Leaving Certificate English. Other cautionary notes that parents should be aware of include: 

The study of English at higher level places significant demands on the Leaving Certificate student. 

The syllabus is very broad in its range of prescribed materials can be quite time consuming. 

The higher-level (course) exam rewards good writing skills and an independent learner. 

The extended composition features largely on both papers at higher level and students are expected to write between 750-1000 words in these essays, during the time available. 

There is the assumption at higher level that students will read widely and independently over the two years. 

An interest in social, political and current affairs is vital. 

Highly developed writing skills and critical analysis skills are prerequisite at Higher level. 

Conversely, at ordinary level, textual material is printed on the exam paper for students e.g. in the poetry sections, poems are printed for the students. Less extended pieces of writing are also expected. 

Texts at ordinary level are less challenging, particularly bearing in mind that students at O.L. do not have to study a Shakespearean play. 

Texts prescribed at O.L. are very student friendly and aimed at encouraging the more reluctant reader. 

There is a vast difference in the study of English at higher level for Junior Certificate and the Study of English at higher level for the Leaving Certificate.