A-Level in French

The course teaches students to communicate in the written and spoken language. There is also a strong emphasis on developing an understanding of the social, cultural and commercial background of France and other French speaking countries.

As well as timetabled French lessons, students are also required to spend up to 30 minutes each week with a French language assistant to improve confidence in the oral element of the examination. Lessons are interactive with a strong emphasis on speaking and writing skills. Extended writing tasks are frequently set for homework, relating strongly to work covered in class. Students are also encouraged to read and listen to French independently and travel to France, if possible.

• Component 1 (speaking) NEA - 30%
• Component 2 (reading, listening and translation) exam - 50%
• Component 3 (writing - novel and film) - 20%

For all Sixth Form courses, students must have five GCSE (or equivalent) passes at Grades 9- 4, which must include Mathematics and English Language/Literature at a Grade 4 or above. For this course, students should also have a Grade 5 or above in GCSE French AND must have sat the Higher Tier Qualification.

An A level language may lead to further study at university level as a pure or combined language degree.

Many universities offer combined courses such as French with Business/Management, English, other languages, Law, Accountancy, Engineering and Sciences.

Living in the European and Global community, languages are highly sought after by employers across a wide spectrum of careers.

Languages are particularly useful in Business, Teaching, The Travel and Tourism Industry, Marketing, Translation, Law, Civil Service, Exports, Work abroad or Bilingual Secretarial work.