Sixth Form Course Booklet 2013 - Bromsgrove School

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
FRENCH, GERMAN, SPANISH
WHY STUDY MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES?
As part of the European Union, our common future lies within Europe. Knowledge of one or more European languages
will enable you to play a more active and productive active role in this future. We cannot fully understand, or easily do
business with, our European partners unless we have a knowledge of their language. Competence in a modern
language opens up a whole new culture, tradition and literature to be explored, and is essential in a wide range of
professions.
AIMS OF THE COURSE
Pupils will develop their language skills to a high level of competence. They will gain insights into the culture and
civilisation of the countries studied, and will gain the confidence to communicate effectively in both speaking and
writing.
SKILLS NEEDED FOR AND DEVELOPED IN THE COURSE
Pupils need an interest in communication in both oral and written forms in the chosen language. They need to wish to
acquire knowledge and enjoy the intellectual challenges involved in learning a modern language. These include
memorisation, organising information and seeking to understand others and their perspectives. Above all, a keenness
for the language and its culture is vital.
REQUIREMENTS FOR STARTING THE COURSE
We would recommend an A grade at GCSE level, but would look sympathetically at candidates with a B grade in the
chosen language.
For pupils taking French, German or Spanish at AS or A2 level, we are aware of the importance of a sustained period of
exposure to the language and its culture during the course. Examination results show that the oral, worth 30% is
significantly improved by exchange visits and stays, and the enjoyment and experience per se motivate pupils to
achieve higher examination results. Therefore participation in the exchange visits to France, Germany or Spain are
compulsory parts of the AS and A2 courses, in which all pupils must participate. The Headmaster alone is able to
provide dispensation from these exchanges where vital work is undertaken towards success in public examinations.
Course followed: Modern Foreign Languages
Examination Board: AQA
CONTENT OF THE COURSE UNITS
AS Unit 1:
AS Unit 2:
A2 Unit 3:
A2 Unit 4:
Listening, Reading and Writing
Speaking Test
Listening, Reading and Writing
Speaking Test
Topics covered in the course include, the media, sport and leisure, popular culture and personal relationships for AS,
education and global issues, the environment and the multicultural society for A2. At least one literary text will be
covered for A2, primarily with a view to Unit 3, along with a study of a historical topic or a film. Dedicated oral lessons in
small groups are given in addition to the standard AS level or A level lesson allocation. We have a languages assistant
in all three languages offered.
The department is keen to encourage Oxbridge entrance and willingly provides the necessary teaching for this. We
have had a number of Oxbridge successes in modern languages in the recent past.
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
Unit 1 is a two hour paper involving listening, reading and writing. Unit 2 is a fifteen minute oral examination following
20 minutes preparation time. These units make up AS level. Unit 3 is a two and a half hour written paper where cultural
topics are tested along with reading, writing and listening. Unit 4 is another fifteen minute oral.
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