Higher English
Course Start Date: August 2025
The Higher English course focuses on the development of advanced language skills, preparing pupils to thrive in a communications-driven society. It enables pupils to enhance their abilities to read, write, talk, and listen in complex and detailed contexts, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication.
The course includes the study of literature, language, and media, with a strong emphasis on critical analysis and evaluation. Pupils will engage with a wide range of texts, including Scottish works, which offer insights into cultural, social, and emotional aspects of language. This exposure to diverse perspectives deepens their understanding of the world and broadens their intellectual horizons.
Course Aims
- Developing the ability to engage with and communicate complex language effectively.
- Critically analysing and evaluating detailed texts, including literature, language, and media.
- Creating written and spoken texts suited to purpose, audience, and context.
- Strengthening independent learning skills through engaging with diverse materials.
This course equips pupils with the language competence required for further study in English and a range of other disciplines, while also preparing them for the demands of higher education and the modern workplace.
Assessment
| Component | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Component 1: Question Paper: Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation |
30 | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Component 2: Question Paper: Critical Reading | 40 | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Component 3: Portfolio-writing | 30 | 4 hours (1st draft) |
| Component 4: Performance–spoken language | A/NA |
Required Course Materials
- Set texts will be confirmed at time of enrolment.
Prerequisites
- Pass in National 5 English
Course Fees
Each SQA course costs £995 per course which includes access to the additional diploma modules.