Students choose A Level French because they have a love of the language and a strong interest in the culture and society of French-speaking countries. It appeals to students who want to learn to communicate fluently in French by exploring increasingly sophisticated topics of current and cultural interest. We understand the starting point of post-GCSE students and we take you step by step to a much higher level. Progress is very rapid, both in terms of linguistic and cognitive challenge, so this is an ideal course for talented linguists who want to think and express themselves.
We follow the AQA specification.
“I chose to study French because my ambition is to study Primary Education at university and this requires a traditional subject at A Level. I decided to take French as my traditional subject as I love languages and studied two at GCSE. I’m very pleased I chose French because it has been very enjoyable and I feel like my skills are getting stronger all the time. The teachers are very nice and helpful and have helped build my confidence in the subject.”
Courtney
Mr Everett
Head of Languages
Language skills are much in demand with employers and universities alike. The Russell Group of universities emphasise that a language A Level is a ‘facilitating subject’ which will be well regarded for almost any university course. Having a language is often the key to getting a foot in the door for that all-important first job, in any competitive career. We have developed a course which interlinks all the key elements throughout the two years. This means that you will learn vocabulary and grammar thoroughly to match the topic areas you are tackling. In addition, elements such as independent research, cultural knowledge and literary texts will be woven into every topic area. We will balance the focus on preparing you for the exam, with a strong emphasis on developing your ability to speak fluently and naturally.
The topics you will study will develop your understanding of current social, political and artistic trends in France and Francophone countries. This will include the study of books and films in French. We will equip you with the grammatical knowledge and vocabulary you need and build your ability to express yourself with increasing spontaneity and sophistication.
Many of our students study languages at university, either as a main subject or alongside other disciplines. Studying A Level languages equips you to work and travel abroad and some students have gone on to start new language, such as Arabic.
Year 1
- The changing nature of family in Francophone countries
- Positive features of a diverse society
- Contemporary francophone music
- Life for the marginalised
- Heritage and identity
- How criminal are treated in the French-speaking world
- Mock Independent Research Project
In addition to these units you will also study the play Le Tartuffe by Molière and the film Au revoir les enfants.
Year 2
- How criminals are treated in the French-speaking world
- Positive features of a diverse society
- Demonstrations, strikes – who holds the power?
- Life for the marginalised
- Heritage and identity
Assessment
There are two exam papers and an oral exam.
Paper 1 assesses listening, reading and translation. It is 2 hours 30 minutes and makes up 50% of the A Level.
Paper 2 assesses your knowledge and understanding of the film and book(s) you have studied. It is 2 hours and makes up 20% of the A Level
The oral exam assesses your verbal communication about your individual research project, along with elements of culture, art or society in the French-speaking world.
Entry Requirements
Minimum 65444 including 6 in French and 5 in English GCSE.
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