MODERN LANGUAGES: FRENCH; GERMAN; SPANISH
(AQA)
MR D WALKER: HEAD OF FACULTY / HEAD OF SPANISH MS N TAIBI: HEAD OF FRENCH MISS C EVANS: HEAD OF GERMAN
A TWO YEAR A LEVEL COURSE, EXAMINED AT THE END OF YEAR 13.
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW OR BE ABLE TO DO BEFORE TAKING MODERN LANGUAGES IN THE SIXTH FORM? • You need to have passed GCSE at grade 7 or 8/9 in the target language. However, a pupil with a grade 6 may be accepted on the course if they can demonstrate good work ethic and motivation.
WHAT WILL I LEARN? Students will learn to: • develop understanding of the spoken and written forms of the foreign language from a variety of registers; • communicate confidently, clearly and imaginatively in the foreign language through both the spoken and the written word, using complex and varied language increasingly accurately; • increase their sensitivity to language and language learning; • develop critical insights into, and contact with, the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of countries or communities where the target foreign language is spoken; • develop positive attitudes to language learning; • understand the importance of grammatical accuracy and apply knowledge through translation; • carry out an independently researched project linked to a target language country; • provide a suitable foundation for further study of the target language, at degree level or equivalent.
38 / Sixth Form Academic Programme 2022-2024
• You need to be interested in the culture and way of life of the countries where the target language is spoken; you should be keen to spend time there on an educational visit or exchange. There is an expectation that pupils opting for a language at A Level will participate in an exchange at least once over the two years’ course. The exchange offers the best possible way to put the target language into practice and is an essential part of studying languages at this level. It offers not only excellent linguistic opportunities, but also the chance to experience and enjoy the culture of the host country. • You will need to take a positive interest in current affairs and in ethical issues in general and ensure that you regularly keep up to date with the news in the country of the language you study.
WHAT KIND OF STUDENT IS THIS COURSE SUITABLE FOR? • students who are interested in facts and opinions, and like talking about them • students who are interested in intellectual and cultural pursuits • students who have a positive concern for ethical issues • students who are interested in travel, holidaying or working abroad Competence in a foreign language is a useful and satisfying skill in itself and it opens up many other opportunities: academic, professional and social. A modern foreign language is the most versatile and useful subject a student could possibly choose in the sixth form. There is no combination of subjects that
