The GCSE called English includes both Language and Literature work. There are two final Examination Papers, each worth 30% of your final mark. Coursework covers the other 40% of the marks so you can see that it is a substantial component for which it is worth working hard from the start of the course. You may well find that your first attempt at a coursework category is not as good as you can produce after practice but it is possible to try further titles until an adequate standard is achieved.
   The other main feature of GCSE English is that there is an Anthology to study. This contains extracts from stories, plays and poems and includes poetry from other cultures and traditions. A typical GCSE course will include a study of Shakespeare, Wide Reading, a Media piece and Original Writing, as well as work in comprehension, analysis and directed writing covering areas such as discussion, explanation, description and narration. There is also an oral component with a minimum of three tasks - one an individual task, one a task in a small group or pair, and one a task in a large group.
   At the end of all this you will be articulate, literate people, well able to communicate on a wide variety of levels.