Embedded Files
DURATION
DURATION
1 Year / 240 Hours
COURSEWORK
COURSEWORK
Assignment - Writing
Performance - Talking
EXAM
EXAM
Question Papers;
Reading & Writing
Listening
COST
COST
None
Why do this course?
Why do this course?
Higher German is a great choice if you enjoy developing your thinking and communication skills. It helps you become more confident in how you understand information, express ideas, and explain your views—skills that are useful across all subjects and well beyond school.
In Higher German, you’ll explore engaging topics and different perspectives from the German-speaking world, helping you develop a broader outlook and a deeper understanding of culture and society. You’ll continue to build skills in reading, listening, talking and writing, and learn to use language more independently, accurately, and confidently.
A key part of the course is learning how to use discursive language—expressing opinions, justifying ideas, and responding to different viewpoints. These skills support clear thinking, well-structured arguments, and confident communication—qualities that are just as important in scientific, technical, and professional settings as they are in the classroom.
Taking Higher German shows that you’re willing to challenge yourself and develop skills over time. The ability to analyse, reason logically, and communicate thoughtfully is highly valued by universities and employers, whatever direction you choose to take.
Higher German isn’t just about learning another language. It’s about growing in confidence, sharpening your thinking, and developing a skill that can set you apart and open doors for your future—whether that’s further study, work, or exploring new opportunities.
What will you experience?
What will you experience?
You will deepen your understanding of the contexts studied at National 5, with increasing emphasis laid on initiative, independent thought, research, responsibility, organisation and time management.
You will study similar topics to the National 5 course but develop understanding of more detailed language whilst also increasing your use of complex structures.
You will develop a broader vocabulary in German and learn how to discuss more complex themes in greater depth using discursive language and argumentation.
What are the long term benefits?
What are the long term benefits?
Why Languages.mp4What will you learn?
What will you learn?
All four skills of Talking, Listening, Reading & Writing are developed by studying the topics of Society, Learning, Employability and Culture.
These four contexts are continued from National 5 but are now dealt with in greater depth and breadth, and more detail and accuracy is required from students in their written and spoken work.
The four skills are also enhanced by watching films and videos and reading authentic articles and websites.
Skills Developed:
To further develop communicative skills such as discussion techniques, interview and conversation techniques, comprehension skills, written accuracy and use of appropriate register and discursive language.
To develop a deeper knowledge of language, foreign cultures and aspects of cultural life (film, literature, music etc.)
Key Facts
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before selecting this course
Assessment
Assessment
Exam:
Paper 1 - Reading (25%) & Directed Writing (12.5%)
Paper 2 - Listening (25%)
Coursework:
Performance - Talking (25%)
Writing Assignment (12.5%)
Equipment
Equipment
We strongly recommend that pupils purchase a bi-lingual dictionary in the language they are learning as these are required for the exam and practising using a physical dictionary at home and in class will be essential.
It would also be beneficial for pupils to find an old set of plug-in earphones (3mm jack) for use when doing individual listening tasks in class.
Advice on this can be given by the class teacher.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Entry is at the discretion of the Principal Teacher Faculty, Modern Languages. However, as a guide:
A pass (A-C) at National 5 German.
A strong pass (A or B) in another Higher language (French)
Some S6 learners may be considered without having sat National 5 in the language. Decisions around this will be made using pupils' SQA results in other subjects.
Homework
Homework
Homework will be set by the class teacher on a regular basis, this will be available on TEAMs.
Progression and Employment
Progression and Employment
Everything you need to know about future pathways from this course
Progression
Progression
YASS Languages Course in S6
Further/Higher Education,
Apprenticeships
World of work.
Employment
Employment
In the global economy, one of the most valuable traits an employee can possess is the ability to speak a second or multiple languages. Knowing an additional language illustrates to an employer the value you bring as an employee and a person. It shows that you are adaptable, open-minded and communicative.
These videos explain how languages can be useful in a wide variety of job sectors:
Languages in creative industries.
Languages in health and wellbeing.
Languages in manufacture and engineering.
Why speaking a foreign language can boost your career
Why speaking a foreign language can boost your career
Being able to speak a second (or third) language is one of the most valuable skills you can bring to a future employer. Here are five key ways it can help you stand out:
Marketability
Including a foreign language on your CV shows employers you have valuable, in-demand skills. Bilingual employees are highly sought after and can give you an edge over other candidates.
Stand Out from the Crowd
In competitive job markets, knowing another language can be the skill that differentiates you from others with similar experience.
Build Stronger Relationships
Speaking someone’s language helps break down barriers and build trust. Whether with clients, colleagues, or partners, this can strengthen professional relationships and lead to better collaboration.
Global Opportunities
Many international companies look for employees who can engage with different cultures. Foreign language skills can open doors to travel, promotions, and exciting global roles.
Sharpen Other Skills
Learning a language can improve creativity, problem-solving, multitasking, and even decision-making, giving you tools that are valuable in any career.
Multilingualism doesn’t just help you communicate—it makes you a more adaptable, capable, and attractive professional.
Want to find out more about Languages in the workplace?
Want to find out more about Languages in the workplace?
Visit these links to find out more!
The Power of Strong Language Skills - Multilingual Workforces
5 Reasons why learning a language can boost your employability
Learner Experiences
Learner Experiences
This is a new course for session 2026-27, therefore no learner stories are available as yet.
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