A-LEVEL FRENCH
FRENCH A-LEVEL
Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel A-Level in French
What are the benefits of the course?
This is a motivating course of study that will enable students to develop an advanced level knowledge and understanding of the French language, the culture of France and other francophone countries, as well as practical and valuable language and transferable study skills. This specification will help to prepare students for Higher Education and enhance their employability profile.
What will I study?
Papers 1 and 2 will be based on content from themes which address a range of social issues and trends, as well as aspects of the political and artistic culture of France and French-speaking countries.
Theme 1 deals with aspects of French society: Les changements dans la société française, Les changements dans les structures familiales, L’éducation, Le monde du travail.
Theme 2 requires students to broaden their knowledge across francophone countries and communities: La culture politique et artistique dans les pays francophones, La musique, Les medias, Les festivals et les traditions.
Paper 2 involves a translation exercise and two essays, one on the literary text (No et Moi) studied in Year 12 and the other on a film (La Haine) studied in Year 13 .
Paper 3 requires students to read and respond to texts based on the theme ‘Les changements dans la société française’ and ‘La culture politique et artistique dans les pays francophones’.
How will I be assessed?
Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation into English, written examination: 2 hours - 40% of the qualification, 64 marks.
Paper 2: Written response to work, grammar and translation, written examination: 2 hours and 40 minutes - 30% of the qualification, 48 marks.
Paper 3: Speaking, internally conducted and externally assessed, 30% of the qualification, 48 marks. Students will be assessed on their ability to communicate and interact effectively, summarise and understand written sources in speech, manipulate language accurately and show knowledge and understanding of the culture and society where the language is spoken.
What does it lead to?
This course can lead to a variety of Higher Education and career opportunities including: journalism, business, tourism, law, computing, fashion, advertising and media. Recent statistics show that those with a language qualification can increase their employability. Previous students have combined their language with a variety of subjects from different areas, including Maths and Drama.
Entry Requirements:
GCSE grade 6 or above in French.
Staff Contact:
Mrs Hughes, Head of Languages