Course Summary

This is an academically challenging subject, the aim of which is to develop the ability to use Spanish effectively for the purposes of practical communication, in situations encountered by a tourist or someone living abroad, e.g. making a phone call, changing money, going to a doctor. It is to offer insights into the culture and civilisation of Spain. Pupils have to identify and use transferable language learning skills, e.g. Manipulating language, grammar and applying knowledge into new contexts. And also develop an understanding of both spoken and written language in a range of contexts.

Throughout the course you will be expected to demonstrate your ability to understand and respond to spoken language, communicate in speech, understand and respond to written language and to communicate in writing.  You will need to express yourself and respond in the language studied except where a response in English is a necessary part of the task. You will be taught focusing around the main topic areas:  Local, national and global areas of interest; current and future study and employment; identity and culture, and the four language skills areas: - Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing using a variety of teaching methods including ICT.

Course Assessment

• • Listening Exam (25%):  Final examination on the main topic areas

  • Speaking Exam (25%): A speaking exam at the end of the course including general conversation and a role play

  • Reading Exam (25%): Final examination on the main topic areas

  • Writing Exam (25%): A written exam 

Career Pathways

A qualification in a foreign language forms part of a sound set of examination qualifications, which may allow a student to continue with Spanish ‘A’ Level. It is also a well-respected GCSE when applying to university. Some universities will reject applications when a language has not been studied to GCSE level. As a citizen of Europe the ability to speak another language is a great advantage as well as an accomplishment, as many of our European counterparts have already discovered. 

Students may use their linguistic skills in the travel industry, hotel and catering, a career in European Parliament, import/export business, international law, bilingual secretarial work or any job in industry and business. It gives you an advantage when applying for university or a job, and a language qualification is essential for the top universities. Languages demonstrate good communication skills.

You may only opt for Spanish GCSE if you have studied Spanish at Roding Valley.