French

Course summary

The syllabus extends naturally from the skills developed at GCSE but with more emphasis on grammar. Equal stress is placed on listening, reading, speaking, and writing, together with the discovery of contemporary culture and society through the study of selected topics. Aspects of French-speaking society: • Family • Cyber-society • Volunteering Artistic culture in the French-speaking world: • A culture proud of its heritage • Contemporary French-speaking music • Cinema Study of a French film. Aspects of French-speaking society: current issues • Positive aspects of a diverse society • What is life for the socially excluded? • How criminals are treated Aspects of political life in the French-speaking world: • Teenagers, right to vote and political commitment • Demonstrations and strikes – Who has the power? • Politics and immigration Study of a French novel. Lessons cover a variety of activities including individual and group work. Students are expected to use as much French as possible in and outside the classroom, make use of the Library facilities for private study (books, DVDs, WQE Online, magazines, etc.), and keep a general interest in all aspects of the language and culture. Students will also have an additional timetabled lesson each week with a native French speaker to assist with oral and listening skills. The department’s facilities include a language laboratory and computers.