S3 BGE Languages for Life

Why do this course?

This course is aimed specifically at learners who have found languages in S1 and S2 challenging and at 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!

What are the long term benefits?

Why Languages.mp4

What will you experience?

This course uses a variety of approaches to support learners in improving their overall literacy skills. Pupils will get the opportunity to study the basics in at least two languages from French, German and Spanish. As well as covering many of the second level Modern Languages Experiences and Outcomes, pupils have the opportunity to consolidate their English grammar. In addition, pupils look at European culture and Scotland’s place within Europe.

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.

What will you learn?

Why learn a Modern Language?

We encourage pupils to see themselves as communicators and problem solvers in their own learning. This develops active, independent life-long learning skills. We build confidence and communication skills to develop our pupils’ ability to take part and enjoy the culture and language of others. This develops tolerance and open-mindedness towards others and a better understanding of difference in the world, both locally and abroad.

We seek to enhance literacy and numeracy in our students and make them aware of the importance of keeping healthy and looking after our world and its inhabitants. The confidence gained from solving problems and developing understanding in a foreign language also adds confidence in other areas of learning; concepts introduced in a modern language are often completely new and have no equivalent in English, which encourages the brain to create new learning capacity and new thinking skills.

Key Facts

Everything you need to know before selecting this course

Homework

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.

Assessment

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.

Progression and Employment

Everything you need to know about future pathways from this course

Progression

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

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:

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