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This engaging course will immerse you in the rich language, literature, film, politics and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. You'll become a confident speaker of Spanish while developing an understanding of diverse cultures and the importance of challenging stereotypes and prejudices. If you enjoy a challenge and are keen to broaden your horizons, this course will equip you with valuable communication and critical thinking skills that are highly valued in higher education and a wide range of careers.
What will I study in Spanish A-level?
A language A-level opens many doors. This course is focused on the study of Hispanic culture across the world, including social issues, artistic culture and politics. During the course you will also make an in-depth study of a novel or play, and a film. This is a great opportunity to gain the confidence to speak and write in Spanish on a variety of topical issues in addition to acquiring transferable research and analytical skills. You will improve your ability to discuss important issues, express opinions and communicate effectively. You will have the opportunity to gain the confidence in speaking and writing effectively on a variety of topical issues, understand and use Spanish grammar accurately, develop reading, listening, and translationskills.
Throughout your studies, you will learn the language in the context of the Hispanic countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. You will study topics based around the themes of technological and social change, looking at the multicultural nature of Spanish-speaking countries. Within this, you will study highlights of Hispanic regional identity, artistic culture and heritage, from festivals to painting, architecture and music. You will explore current issues in Spanish-speaking society, including multiculturalism, racism and integration.You will learn about contemporary political aspects of the Spanish-speaking world, such as democracies and dictatorships, changing voting trends and youth's participation in politics.
Besides the main topics mentioned You will study a literary text and a film in depth, and will develop your ideas on these through analitical essaus.
You will furthermore carry out independent research on an area of your choice, to be presented orally in the speaking exam alongside a discussion on the topics mentioned above.
Entry Requirements
At least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects including Grade 6 in Spanish. If you have not completed GCSE Spanish but have an equivalent or higher command of the language, you may be eligible to enrol on this course.
How will I learn?
The course includes a variety of activities and assignments aimed at developing useful specific and transferable skills that will prepare students for the A-level exam as well as university and the world of work. These include understanding spoken and written Spanish, communicating orally and in writing on the topics covered, conducting independent research in Spanish, collecting and summarising information, oral presentations, discussions, translating from Spanish into English and from English into Spanish, and writing analytical-critical essays.
Regular grammar and vocabulary work, alongside helpful study and learning strategies, will underpin these skills. There will also be plenty of test practice geared to train students for the final examination. The students are expected to listen and read extensively, including reading aloud on the topics from texts in Spanish 20 minutes daily in order to gain fluency, grammar, vocabulary, idiomatic expression and content knowledge. Weekly investigation tasks are aimed at expanding topic knowledge, develop research and summary skills and are evaluated through oral presentations.
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?
Students are encouraged to look for work experience opportunities both at home and abroad, and we can help with applications.
When possible, we will offer enrichment activities such as study days or theatre trips.
Are there any costs involved?
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Students may wish to purchase their own copy of the textbook (although this is available as a free ebook).
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It is advised that students have their own copy of the Oxford AQA Spanish A Level Spanish Answers and Transcripts.
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There may be some small costs for course booklets
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Students will have to purchase a copy of the set text for use on the course.
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Students need a set of headphones for use in class assessments.
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Cultural trips will have an extra cost, although we do aim to keep prices as low as possible.
Device Requirements
COURSE_DEVICE
If you already own a device that meets the technical requirements of your course, you are welcome to bring it with you to college.
If not, more information on a convenient rental and help-to-buy scheme designed specifically for Cirencester College students is linked below.
FAQs
Will the classes be taught in Spanish?
It is important that you immerse yourself in Spanish, so you will hear the language spoken throughout the lesson and you will soon become familar with commands and questions. Some explanations will be given in English, where necessary. Students are also encouraged to speak as much Spanish as possible both in and outside of the clasroom.
Do i need any study aids?
Classroom textbooks and online resources including ebooks will be provided. A revision and grammar workbook will also be useful.
All enrolled students will have access to online course materials for audio, video and study resources.
You will have access to the film online and you will need to buy a copy of the book for the play. There are study guides on the film and play available to borrow from the library or you may choose to have your own.
The library offers a range of books and DVDs that students can take out on loan, and there will be lists of online resources.
There will be a number of booklets available from reprographics for a small charge throughout the course.
You will need access to a good online bilingual dictionary such as WordReference.
What job prospects are available for language graduates?
"With the globalisation of industry and commerce, graduates with a good command of modern languages are sought after for numerous roles in a variety of organisations and sectors," says Margaret Holbrough, careers adviser at Graduate Prospects. The Guardian
Here are some jobs where an A-level in Spanish can help
- Broadcast Journalist
- Detective
- Diplomatic Service Officer
- English as a Foreign Language Teacher
- International Aid/development Worker
- Logistics and Distribution Manager
- Marketing Executive
- Patent Examiner
- Sales Executive
- Tour Manager
- Translator and Interpretor
Will I only learn about Spain?
No, the exam specification covers all of the Hispanic countries and during the course we look at many examples from other countries. Your Individual Research Project gives you the opportunity to explore an interest in any part of the Spanish-speaking world.
Awarding Body
AQA
Available As
A Level
[56 UCAS pts. available]
[56 UCAS pts. available]
Add to Application
What can I do after I have taken this course?
Available As
A Level
[56 UCAS pts. available]
[56 UCAS pts. available]
Add to Application
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