National 5 Spanish

Languages equip you with many of the skills needed for life, work and learning. Knowledge of a language is vital in the job market where companies operate throughout the world. Many university and college courses offer combined degree courses i.e. engineering and a foreign language to meet the needs of employers.

When learning a foreign language you study the culture of the country which leads to a greater appreciation, respect and tolerance of how other people live; vital in today’s multi-cultural society. An ability to speak the language when on holiday allows you to integrate more fully into the foreign environment.

The study of a foreign language enhances social skills. Social interaction played out in the classroom can be transferred to real situations. Pupils become more confident and self- assured.

The study of a language will help enhance communication skills as well as develop competence in social interaction. Learning about another country will broaden horizons and foster greater understanding of other cultures. 

• • Society – healthy lifestyles, relationships 

  • Learning – school, college, future plans 

  • Employability – job skills, the world of work 

  • Culture – customs, holidays, literature, media

Writing Assignment - 20 marks

Pupils produce a written essay (120-200 words) based on one of the contexts with stimulus points given in English. Pupils are allowed access to a word glossary, grammar book and dictionary. This is done in class under exam conditions and pupils are allowed to redraft. 

Pupils sit an external exam in May as follows:

Paper one - Reading and Writing

Questions on three short texts to be answered in English - 30 marks

A job application written in the target language (120-150 words)

There are six bullet points, the last two varying each year - 20 marks 

Paper two – Listening - 20 marks

Two items – a monologue and a dialogue in the target language. 

Questions to be answered in English 

Talking Assessment - 30 marks

A presentation in the target language on a topic of choice. 

A dialogue with questions and answers covering two contexts. 

All assessment elements are scaled to ensure each of the skills, reading, writing, listening and talk comprise 25% of the total mark.