Years 10 to 11 – Key Stage 4
GCSE French
Examination Board: AQA
Course Code: French 8658
The course studied in Years 10 and 11 will build on the language skills gained in Key Stage 3. Students will continue to learn to use the language of real life situations and will have a working knowledge of how native speakers communicate in a variety of everyday situations. The language learning is set in 3 contexts:
- Identity and Culture
- Local, national, international and global areas of interest
- Current and future study and employment
Students will learn to understand both the spoken and written language and to communicate orally and in written form. Students will also learn about the country, other countries where the language is spoken and their way of life, customs and culture.
Assessment
All examinations will take place at the end of Year 11
Listening 25% 35 minutes (Foundation Tier) / 45 minutes (Higher Tier)
Speaking 25% 7-9 minutes (Foundation Tier) / 10-12 minutes (Higher Tier)
Reading 25% 45 minutes (Foundation Tier) / 1 hour (Higher Tier)
Writing 25% 1 hour (Foundation Tier) / 1 hour 15 minutes (Higher Tier)
It is recommended that each student possesses their own dictionary for the course. We recommend the following;
Collins French Dictionary: ISBN 978000 7485475
Language learning is, by its nature, a continuous process in which students are reinforcing and building on what they know. They will be expected to revise and learn vocabulary and structures on a regular basis and to meet deadlines.
Further Education and/or Career Opportunities
The foundation gained in language learning skills and the GCSE grade obtained will equip students to continue the study of a Modern Foreign Language at AS/A2 Level. The number and variety of university degree courses offering a vocational qualification combined with a language and the opportunity to study and work as an undergraduate are increasing each year as we become aware of the need to equip British students for life and work in the wider world. As the United Kingdom moves into close political and economic relationships with other countries, the GCSE student of today will be the work force of tomorrow and will be expected at all levels to be prepared to live and work beyond our country’s boundaries. The languages, the language learning skills and especially the communication skills which we offer will be of increasing importance throughout our students’ lives.