This course is aimed specifically at learners who have found languages in S1 and S2 enjoyable but may have found them more challenging and those who would benefit from support to improve their overall literacy skills.
The course will give you an understanding of what life is like in other countries and will introduce you to basic language in at least two languages, allowing you to develop coping strategies for your future, whether it be that you end up abroad on holiday or for work.
The course will also give you the chance to get some qualifications under your belt in S3 which is a great chance to add to your CV early!
This course uses a variety of approaches to support learners in improving their overall literacy skills whilst learning about culture in different countries. Pupils will get the opportunity to study the basics in at least two languages from French, German and Mandarin. As well as covering many of the second and third level Modern Languages Experiences and Outcomes, pupils have the opportunity to consolidate their English grammar.
Pupils will be encouraged to work individually, in pairs and in groups at various points to practice all aspects of the language in different contexts.
Teachers frequently use games and interactive resources to encourage competitive spirit and to provide enjoyable experiences that help learners develop confidence using key vocabulary and structures.
Digital Technology is also used regularly throughout the course, both to access foreign language websites and to help pupils present their work.
Most lessons are delivered through Microsoft Teams and ClassNotebook meaning that pupils have access to their learning wherever they are. This allows pupils to revisit work they have done in class at home to support revision and consolidation of their learning.
Throughout the course, pupils work towards a National 2 Life in another Country unit in two or three languages as well as the Languages for Life and Work Award in French. Pupils will receive certification for these from the SQA.
The S3 Languages for Life course will very much be adapted to the interests of pupils and topics will be chosen in line with pupil voice.
The course will be designed to ensure pupils can achieve various SCQF Level 2 and Level 3 .qualifications.
Everything you need to know before selecting this course
This course will involve less homework than usual, as the level of language required is quite basic.
Homework may be given at key points in the year and is likely to involve practising and preparing for short Talking Assessments which form part of the Modern Languages for Life & Work Award.
You will complete short unit assessments as part of the National 2 and Level 3 qualifications you study.
These will involve some short reading & listening tasks as well as two short discussions in the foreign language.
Everything you need to know about future pathways from this course
Progression from this course will be discussed on a one-to-one basis and may look different for each learner depending on their progress.
Some examples of progression are shown below:
S4 - Level 4 Languages for Life & Work
S5 - National 4 or 5 in a language
S4 – National 3 or 4 in a language
S5 - National 4 or 5 in a language
S6 - National 4 or 5 in a different language
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.