French AQA
Why study French?
The study of modern languages to an advanced level is recognised by universities and by employers as producing young people with a range of highly valued skills. There is no doubt that a good grade in a language at A Level will facilitate entry to the best universities. In a global marketplace people with the language skills to help companiescompete internationally are more and more sought after. Employmentpossibilities open up significantly if people have the skills to allow themto look around the world for work.
The study of French at A Level allows students to improve and developthe linguistic skills they have already acquired. It also trains them to present a coherent argument, both written and spoken, and to developtheir own ideas and opinions on a range of different topics. In addition, in learning French at this level, students are exposed to one of the greatest of European cultures, with its wealth of literature, film, art andarchitecture, not to mention a fascinating history.
Entry Requirements
Preferably students would have achieved at least a grade 6 or a B at GCSE or equivalent.
What is Involved?
The final AQA examinations at A Level consist of three parts – a Speaking test, and two papers on Reading,Writing and Listening. For the Listening section, all candidates have individual equipment, and they can listen to the recording as many times as they want to. In the Speaking test, the focus is on natural, fluent communication.
Many of the topics studied initially will sound familiar to pupils currently studying French GCSE, such as family and relationships, technology, and music. However, at A Level, the content of the course is much moreengaging and challenging.
In the second year, students study current social issues, such as poverty, racism and politics. During the A Level course students also study two cultural topics, both of which are the subject of two essays in the final examination. These will be a book and a film from a prescribed list. In addition, students arerequired to do some individual research on a subject of their own choice, and a short presentation on this will form a part of the final speaking examination.
Outside of the classroom, students are encouraged to read and to listen to French. We expect them to start making use of the Internet for their studies, particularly video clips in the language, and the press, to increase their vocabulary and their understanding of current affairs. There is quite an extensive libraryof French literature and film in the department, which students may borrow from if they wish. We also encourage them to take opportunities to travel to France during their A Level course.