Understanding Corpus Data for Language Change

Text B for the language change question is quite useful, but only after you figure it out. In this video, I explain what a corpus is, walk you through a past paper example using collocates of the word proud, and show you what an actual corpus looks like so you know exactly where this data comes from and how to use it in your analysis.

Should I Take 9093 English Language?

You're staring at a list of AS subjects, trying to figure out what to take. 9093 English Language looks appealing, or at least manageable. Before you tick that box, here's what you should know. We’ll go through the big questions one at a time so that you can decide whether the 9093 credential is right for you.

What Is a Letter to the Editor?

In this video, I explain what a letter to the editor is, why people write them, and what sets them apart from online comments. I also go over which key features of the form to keep in mind when writing or analyzing a letter to the editor.

The Key to An Effective Descriptive Opening

A strong opening line can be the difference between a descriptive composition that soars and one that never gets off the ground, and writing one is not as difficult as it might seem. This video discusses how to use carefully chosen details that punch above their weight, in order to establish mood, physical setting, and climate in the very first line.

Theories of Language Change

This resource discusses eight important theories and concepts related to language change: semiotics theory, functional theory, substratum theory, the s-curve model, prescriptivism, descriptivism, theory of lexical gaps, and random fluctuation theory.