French

The French course will introduce students to the more independent nature of studying a language at A Level. The course will also provide students with opportunities to consolidate some key challenging grammar concepts needed, as well as widening their cultural knowledge of the francophone world. Students will also explore cinematic techniques used in French film, which will be an excellent introduction to the analytical skills needed in A Level essay writing.

Lesson Outline: 3 sessions per week.

Week 1

Grammar – Pronouns: direct, indirect object, simple relative. Cinema – Introduction to French film vocabulary. Culture – Students will explore the theme of ‘La Francophonie’ to widen their understanding of French culture using 4 different skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing).

Week 2

Grammar – Introduction to complex relative pronouns Cinema – Cinematic techniques in Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain Culture – Students will explore the theme of ‘La Francophonie’ to widen their understanding of French culture using 4 different skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing).

Week 3

Grammar – Complex tenses / « concordance des temps » Cinema – Key themes in Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain Culture – Students will explore the theme of ‘La Francophonie’ to widen their understanding of French culture using 4 different skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing).

Week 4

Grammar – Introduction to the subjunctive. Cinema – Film review completed by the students. Culture – Students will explore the theme of ‘La Francophonie’ to widen their understanding of French culture using 4 different skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing).

Project Outcome: The completion of a film review of your choice where you will be able to analyse the cinematic techniques used by the director and their meaning. This will give you a taste of what writing an essay in Year 12 will look like.