Key Stage 3

During Key Stage 3, pupils become familiar with the sounds, the written form and the grammar of French. They then increase their confidence and competence by using this knowledge to express themselves in role-plays, conversations and writing.

Their understanding of the language is improved by listening to genuine French people talking about different subjects and also by reading a range of stimulating texts.

Students are also encouraged to make contact with students of French speaking communities via the internet or traditional mail in order to practise their language skills and to help increase their cultural awareness of French speaking countries.

Assessment

Assessment is done by means of the course book unit assessments which tests the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

GCSE

Candidates who undertake this course of study have usually followed the National Curriculum programme of study in French during Key Stage 3.

AIMS:

This course aims to encourage candidates to:

• develop an understanding of the spoken and written forms of French in a range of contexts;

• develop the ability to communicate effectively in French, through both the spoken and written word, using a range of vocabulary and structures;

• develop a knowledge and understanding of French grammar and the ability to apply it;

• apply their knowledge and understanding in a variety of relevant contexts, which reflect their previous learning and growing maturity;

• develop positive attitudes to French learning.

Assessment is in the form of four papers, which cover the skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing.

Candidates who are assessed at Foundation Level can achieve a maximum of C grade. Those candidates entered at Higher Level can achieve up to A* grade.

This qualification provides an appropriate foundation for further study of French or related subjects. In addition, it provides the candidate with a valuable knowledge of another European language.

A level 

Minimum entry requirements: Grade C at IGCSE French

Students choosing French should have a real interest in the French language, and in the culture of French-speaking countries.

Students will learn through a variety of methods including group activities based on the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. All source materials are authentic and current, and may include newspaper articles, radio broadcasts and material downloaded from the Internet. Students are encouraged to make contact with native French speakers to improve their language skills and knowledge of French society and culture.

By the end of the course, students will have learned how to understand and respond, in speech and writing, to spoken and written language; show knowledge of, and accurately apply, French grammar and syntax; and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of aspects of the chosen society.

French provides an invaluable foundation for a number of popular careers including journalism, teaching, business and travel-related careers, and an advanced level qualification in languages increases students’ value in the wider job market.

Students can follow the one year AS level course, or follow a staged assessment route to A level by taking the AS qualification at the end of Year 12 and, subject to satisfactory performance, continue to take the final examinations at the end of Year 13.