French (SQA)

In S3 this course is optional

Why study French (SQA)?

Languages equip you with many of the skills needed for life, work and learning. Knowledge of a language is vital in the job market where companies operate throughout the world. Many university and college courses offer combined degree courses i.e. engineering and a foreign language to meet the needs of employers.

When learning a foreign language you study the culture of the country which leads to a greater appreciation, respect and tolerance of how other people live; vital in today’s multi-cultural society. An ability to speak the language when on holiday allows you to integrate more fully into the foreign environment.

The study of a foreign language enhances social skills. Social interaction played out in the classroom can be transferred to real situations. Pupils become more confident and self assured.

Where does this course lead to in S4?

The course will lead to National 5 French in S4 and Higher French in S5, although Higher presentation in S4 is possible when appropriate.

What will you study in this course?

You will continue to build on the language skills you have acquired in S2, with the focus on:

Understanding language – reading and listening
Expressing language – speaking and writing

The course is aimed at pupils who intend studying French in S4. The pace and challenge of the course will reflect the high standards to which pupils will aspire.

Topics studied include:

Home area – location, description, facilities, comparison between town and country living, environmental issues.
New Technologies & Media – pupils will view a French film and discuss related issues.

As well as developing the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, pupils will:

Work independently and collaboratively.
Study the grammar of the language to aid understanding and production.
Research and plan a talk on a topic of choice in the foreign language.
Use a range of digital media – websites, computer programmes etc to enhance language skills.

Assessment in this course

You will be assessed in all four language skills and have to:

Identify straightforward information from written and spoken French.
Demonstrate an ability to talk in French through a conversation, discussion or presentation.
Write a short piece in French (e-mail / blog) with sufficient accuracy.

Homework in this course

Homework is given on a weekly basis to consolidate on learning. It may be used to:

Develop reading and writing skills.
Reinforce a grammar point or language structures being taught.
Help pupils prepare for assessments.
Increase the vocabulary range within the context being studied.

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