French

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE A LEVEL FRENCH?

Studying French at A Level can improve your career prospects and marketability in this increasingly global economy.  More and more companies are looking to recruit people with advanced language skills and becoming fluent in French will allow you potentially to communicate with another 77 million people! France is our nearest neighbour, it is the largest country in Western Europe and is a country with which many British companies do business.

WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

You will develop and extend the language skills you have acquired at GCSE Level.  Equal emphasis will be placed on the four skills within the themes of aspects of French speaking society such as family, cyber society, cinema, music and aspects of political life.  In the second year of the course, you will begin study of a French film and a novel.  

HOW WILL I LEARN?

Lessons will be delivered in the target language and smaller groups will ensure that each student has an opportunity to participate fully in lessons and use their French as much as possible. You will also spend one hour per week with a native French speaker in groups of three or four which will ensure that you become a confident communicator.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?

As well as continuing the practice of language skills you have been taught at GCSE, particular emphasis will be placed on speaking French and the ability to communicate with accuracy and confidence on a variety of issues. Communication skills will help you get more from life, whatever career you choose, as linguistic competence and intercultural understanding are attributes which are highly sought after by employers. Continued study of French grammar will allow you to acquire more sophisticated translation and essay writing skills. 

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

You will be assessed in all four skills at A Level. This is a linear qualification where formal examinations take place at the end of the second year.  Examinations will test your knowledge of the topics covered as well as knowledge of grammar.  Paper 1 will assess competence in reading, writing and listening. Paper 2 is a writing paper based on the study of the book or film, whilst a visiting examiner assesses your oral ability in Paper 3. 

WHAT CAN A QUALIFICATION IN FRENCH LEAD TO?

Students will find that career prospects are enhanced by the possession of one or more foreign languages. Many degree courses can also be studied jointly with French. But more than that, French, as with any other language, provides a skill that students will take with them beyond A-Levels and university. It will provide them with an array of new opportunities, and will develop their ability to engage with and understand other cultures.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Grade 6 in GCSE French.