French A-level

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“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.”
In an increasingly globalised world, learning a second language will open many doors. Not only will you become a confident speaker of French, but you will also develop an understanding of a different culture and understand the importance of challenging stereotypes and prejudices. The breadth and depth of the A-Level, which includes literature, film, politics and culture, will also equip you with communication and critical thinking skills which are in demand by employers.

What will I study in French A-level?

You will study topics based on the themes of technological and social change, looking at the multicultural nature of French-speaking society. Within this, you will study highlights of francophone artistic culture, including music and cinema, and will learn about contemporary political aspects of the French-speaking world.

You will explore current issues in French-speaking society, including multiculturalism. Throughout your studies, you will learn the language in the context of French-speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. You will study texts and film and will have the opportunity to carry out independent research on an area of your choice, to be presented in the speaking exam.

Entry Requirements

At least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects including Grade 6 in French.

If you have not completed GCSE French but have an equivalent or higher command of the language, you may be eligible to enrol on this course.

How will I learn?

In French, we use a variety of teaching methods and activities including class and pair speaking tasks, authentic materials such as videos and films, online sources and textbooks along with quizzes and games. All of our classes are mixed ability, but standards are high. Native speakers or bilingual students are welcome and we differentiate the tasks accordingly.

Trips and enrichment activities are offered and help students to develop their speaking skills as well as cultural knowledge of the French-speaking countries.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment tasks are varied and cover listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
Assessment is through exams at the end of the second year, consisting of three papers, one of which is the speaking test.
There is no coursework, but the speaking exam includes a discussion of the Individual Research Project which students will have worked on throughout their second year.

Any trips?

We usually offer a language and cultural trip to France every year as well as other enrichment activities such as study days or theatre trips. Students are encouraged to look for work experience opportunities both at home and abroad, and we can help students with applications.

Are there any costs involved?

You should expect some small costs for course booklets
You may also want to buy a copy of the set text and the DVD/download of the film.
Trips abroad and day trips have a cost involved, but we do aim to keep prices as low as possible.

FAQs

How big is the step from GCSE?

At the end of the two-year course, you will have jumped up a big step. But the course is progressive; we go right back to basics in grammar and pronunciation and progressively build up the high-level vocabulary required to understand and talk about the set topics.

Will the classes be taught in French?

The best way to learn a language is to hear it and speak it as much as possible, so yes, most of the lessons will be in French. The only exception might be a tricky grammar point or an essential piece of information. This should not be a worry. Through gestures, pictures, synonyms or help from your classmates, you will get used to this very quickly.

Do I need any study aids?

Classroom textbooks and online resources including ebooks will be provided. An A-level vocabulary book and a grammar book might also be useful. You may wish to purchase your own DVD or download the chosen film and will need to buy a copy of the novel or play in the second year. You will need access to a good bilingual dictionary, either a hard copy or a dictionary app.

What can I do to prepare myself for French A-Level?

Immerse yourself in all things French! Listen to French music, watch French films (with English subtitles), read French magazines or short stories, etc. Enjoy it. You could also do some revision of your basic grammar on LanguagesOnline. A little more often is the best recipe for success in this course.