French

Course summary

Are you highly motivated and open to new experiences? Do you want to stand out from the crowd? Only 3% of students in England can speak a modern foreign language at this level, and employers are crying out for confident linguists with strong communication skills. French and German are facilitating A levels, highly regarded by the top universities. French and German can both be combined with almost any subject and will significantly improve the range of skills you offer to an employer. The opportunity to work abroad becomes a real possibility. The course aims to build upon and develop the linguistic skills obtained at GCSE. New language will be acquired via topic-based work. In Year 12 the topics covered will be the changing state of the family, the digital world, youth culture, festivals and traditions, art and architecture and cultural life. In addition, students will have the chance to study a film in depth. In Year 13 students will explore multiculturalism in German / French-speaking society and aspects of political life in the French / German speaking world. There will also be the opportunity to study a work of literature in French / German. Oral participation is a vital component and students should come prepared to contribute to lively discussions. Grammar will be an important aspect of the course and will be supported by a grammar workbook. Students are encouraged to further their understanding and appreciation of French/German culture through research on the internet. French/ German news websites can be viewed regularly to help students keep up to date with wider social/ political development of the country which will in turn help increase confidence in listening skills. Reading a parallel text and watching films in French and German are highly recommended for helping students to immerse themselves in the language.