French
Head of Department: Mr P J Randall
Am I suited to this course?
The knowledge, skills and understanding required for 'higher' tier at GCSE and a willingness and enthusiasm to learn more about the French language, French culture and French life.
What will we study?
The skills that were met at GCSE, namely listening, speaking, reading and writing, are further practised and refined. In the Upper Sixth students also read and discuss some French literature such as a play or a novel, and learn about French institutions, heritage and way of life.
What work will I do?
The work you will be set includes summarising and translation into English, writing in the foreign language and essays on the French texts studied. The speaking element includes role plays, presentations and discussion of topics. There will be various listening and reading comprehension tasks and a study of French civilisation and institutions.
A foreign language assistant helps students to develop oral skills. A considerable supply of foreign language newspapers and videos are also available for students to study, as well as reference to website materials. A listening booth is also available for independent study in the Library.
How will my A level grade be assessed?
The first 2 units (AS) will be taken in June of the Lower Sixth year. Units 3 and 4 are taken at or near the end of the 2 year course.
Both AS and A2 test listening, speaking, reading, writing and aspects of French-speaking society in a variety of combinations. The syllabus is explained in detail in Induction Week.
Exchange Visits
Student in the Sixth Form are very much encouraged to join the biennial French exchange visit to Brest or to organise their work experience in a French speaking environment.