6th Form Prospectus

French What’s it all about? By studying French, you’ll stand out from the crowd: 61% of the UK population don’t speak a foreign language! A language opens opportunities and widens career choices as well as employment prospects: almost 300 of Britain’s top employers believe an additional language boosts employability. Universities look favourably at language qualifications and some courses even require a language. Many scientists believe that knowledge of another language can boost your brainpower! There are four main topic areas: Social issues and trends Political and artistic culture Grammar Works: either one literary text and a film or two texts “If you talk to aman in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language that goes to his heart.” Nelson Mandela To get started: GCSE grade 6 in French is required. The emphasis is on the culture and society of France or French speaking countries. An independent research topic will be assessed through the speaking test (presentation and discussion). Grammar is key throughout and there are translations into English and French). Students are expected to read and listen to French outside lessons on an independent basis. What next? Potential careers: international law, journalism, travel & tourism, teaching, working in finance, design, fashion and engineering for those aiming at highly globalised industry. Exam and Assessment Information: AQA - 7652 This qualification is linear and students will sit all their exams at the end of the two years. There are three papers: Paper 1 - Listening, reading and writing Written exam - 2 hours 30 minutes 100 marks - 50% of A Level Paper 2 - Writing Written exam - 2 hours 80 marks - 20% of A Level Paper 3 - Speaking Oral exam - 21-23 minutes 60 marks - 30% of A Level Our students say … “I chose to study French at A Level to challenge myself for the most part. Not only do I love the language itself, I like the way the language learning enables you to better understand different cultures and ways of life. In studying French, I hope it will open new opportunities for me in the future.” “Learning a language is one thing, but what is equally exciting is learning about another culture and how that culture sees the same problems that we face in our own country.” Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above including English and Maths AND Grade 6 in GCSE French 29