This module offers an interdisciplinary exploration of English language, literature, and creative writing, focusing on the rich historical and cultural tapestry of the city of Chester. You will explore the structure and grammar of the English language, including the accent and dialect of Chester; engage with literary texts inspired by or set in Chester; and craft your own creative writing pieces rooted in and inspired by the city’s heritage.

Through a blend of analytical and practical activities, you will consider how place shapes language, literature and storytelling. Chester, a city which has evolved from its Roman foundations to its vibrant modern identity, is the perfect setting for such study.

Field trips, writing workshops, and input from experts in the field will enrich your learning experience, providing opportunities to connect academic skills with real-world applications. By the end of the module, you will have honed your knowledge of the structure of English, developed your writing expertise, deepened your appreciation of literature and place, and developed transferable skills in research, storytelling, and communication, preparing you for study at Level 5 and for potential careers in writing, teaching, heritage, and beyond.

Coursework may include detailed language analysis, critical readings of literary works, and creative projects/podcasts that integrate Chester’s landmarks, archives, and history.

Writing – both other people’s writing and the writing you do yourself – will be central to your university degree and your future life, whether that is in your career, in further study, or in the lifelong love of learning we hope to inspire. ‘Writing for Your Life’ will help you develop key skills in effective reading, note-taking and time-management; cognitive skills such as critical and analytical thinking, problem solving and creativity; and enhanced communication skills such as the ability to listen carefully, write clearly and persuasively, and discuss confidently and with authority.

You will also explore different types and modes of writing, the intersections of language, literature and technology, and various platforms for disseminating your writing. The module will allow you to build relationships with others who share your love of English language, literature, and creative writing including your fellow students and tutors, allowing you to work successfully as part of a team as well as independently.

You now have the opportunity to pick an optional module to learn a new language or build on your existing language skills as part of your degree. You can choose:

• Subsidiary Language for Beginners (choice of German, Italian or Spanish)
• French: Intermediate Language Development
• Spanish: Intermediate Language Development
• Chinese: Intermediate Language Development
• German: Communication in Practice
• French: Communication in Practice
• Spanish: Communication in Practice