A Level French A/AS Level French
The Advanced GCE examination consists of 4 modules: spoken expression and response in French language; understanding and written response in French language; understanding and spoken response in French language; research, understanding and written response in French. The first two form the AS units, the second two (called A2) lead to A level.
The course aims to encourage students to develop awareness and understanding of the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of French speaking countries and communities. They learn to communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in French for a range of purposes and acquire knowledge and skills appropriate to practical use, further study and/or employment.
The following general topic areas will be covered, and related subject material used to practise the skills of speaking, listening, reading, creative, discursive and research-based writing:
Youth culture and concerns; Lifestyle, health and fitness; The world around us: travel, tourism, environmental issues and the target language speaking world; Education and employment; Customs, traditions, beliefs and religions; National and international events: past, present and future; Literature and the arts.
During the second year, students are expected to study a text, play, film or other topic of interest to them in preparation for a research-based essay. They will refer to a variety of resources including text books, reference books, the internet and audio-visual media, and there may well be visits to the cinema or theatre as well.
Ideally candidates for A level French will have already visited a country where the language is spoken. If not, they should certainly aim to spend some time in France during the course.
Candidates will have 7 lessons per week tuition but should expect to spend 5-6 hours per week as a minimum on set homework. Additionally, a good student will read around the subject and undertake independent research; i.e. further reading in French, use of the internet, satellite TV, radio et alia.
A good pass in languages at ‘A’ level could lead to a straight language degree or it could lead to a degree combining (a) language(s) with another subject such as Business Studies or Law. It could be a subsidiary subject to a science or technical subject. What is certain, is that in the years ahead, Britain will be inextricably and increasingly linked to Europe and a knowledge of Europe’s languages will be essential for all in industry, research and politics, apart from offering a wider dimension to tourist and leisure activities.
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