French

Course summary

If you enjoy the challenge and the satisfaction of learning a foreign language at GCSE, are sociable and like communicating with people, a language course could be perfect for you. Speaking a foreign language helps you learn about different people and cultures and learning a foreign language is a great way of opening your mind to new ideas and new ways of looking at the world. In addition, competency in another language enables you to enjoy things such as literature, film, and music in the original language. You will enjoy this course if you are an open, confident person who communicates well with others but is also able to work independently on quite challenging but rewarding tasks. You must be committed, hardworking, and able to appreciate the importance of accuracy and attention to detail when learning a language at this advanced level. You will be expected to learn and revise vocabulary and grammatical structures regularly, as well as read and listen widely in the target language so that you can debate current affairs with confidence. A variety of teaching and learning methods will be used including teacher-led activities, group work, personal research, and debate. Learning is based on an interactive and communicative approach and we will help you to develop the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Lessons will be conducted mostly in the target language and students are expected to participate fully in questioning, discussions, conversations, and presentations. You will have access to web-based films and other foreign language practice material. You will have the advantage of learning in a small group in which your teachers will be able to give you a good deal of attention. You must be prepared to read widely and practice your writing technique in a foreign language. Topic areas include: • Study of one book one film and an independent research task • The changing nature of family • The digital world and the ‘cyber-society’ • Society • Politics including immigration, racism, and political demonstrations • Culture including art, fashion, cinema, and architecture