French

Course summary

In year one of the course there are 3 compulsory topics: • Current trends in French-speaking society (the changing nature of family, the ‘cyber-society’, and the place of voluntary work). • Artistic culture in the French-speaking world (a culture proud of its heritage, contemporary francophone music, cinema: the 7th art form). • A study of a French-speaking film. In year two of the course, there are 4 compulsory topics: • Current trends in French-speaking society (positive features of a diverse society, life for the marginalized, and how criminals are treated). • Aspects of political life in the French-speaking world (teenagers, the right to vote and political commitment, demonstrations, strikes (who holds the power?) and politics and immigration. • A study of a French-speaking book. • An individual research project linked to a French-speaking country or culture. French is a highly valued A-level and choosing it will increase your chances of gaining a place at a leading university. Languages combine well with virtually any subject for further study; the range of combined degrees and further education courses involving a language is limitless – from Accountancy to Theatre Studies. Many universities also offer the opportunity to take a year abroad whereby students can study their degree subject in another country and expand, develop, and practice their language skills at the same time.