GCSE

Students choosing to study German should have a keen interest in studying foreign languages and have at least a basic knowledge of German.

This course aims to encourage candidates to:

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

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

• develop a knowledge and understanding of German 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 German 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 German 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 German

Students choosing German should have a real interest in the German language, and in the culture of German-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 German speakers to improve their language skills and knowledge of German 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, German grammar and syntax; and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of aspects of the chosen society.

German 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.