French- A Level

Course Leader: Mrs S Cooke

What is it all about?

Choosing to study French at A Level is a very wise choice, as it will open a lot of opportunities in your career, future international travel, and Higher Education.  The government has stated there is a National Crisis of Linguists currently, so by continuing languages for as long as possible you will give yourself the edge when applying for the top universities and jobs.  For those who also want a fascinating and challenging subject then A Level French is for you.  You will study different aspects of the French-speaking world and develop essential skills that will equip for you success in the course and later in life, such as research, public speaking, problem-solving and communication and collaborative skills.  Therefore, it is an excellent stepping - stone to Higher Education and/ or the world of (international) work.

What are the entry requirements?

A Level French builds strongly on the foundations of your GCSE study.  In addition to the general entry requirements for A Level study of 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 including English and Maths, you will need to achieve a minimum grade 5 in French GCSE to give you the right foundations for success at Advanced level.  You will also need to ensure that you are self - motivated and prepared for the rewarding and fascinating challenge ahead. 

What will I learn on this course?

Theme 1: Changes in French society.

 ● Changes in family structures.  Changes in attitudes towards marriage, couples, and the family. The education system and student issues.

 ● The world of work in France and attitudes towards work; the right to strike; gender equality.

Theme 2 covers artistic culture (through music and festivals and traditions) and political and artistic culture (through media).

● Music Changes and developments; the impact of music on popular culture.

• The media Freedom of expression; print and online media; the impact on society and politics.

● Festivals and traditions Festivals, festivals, customs, and traditions.

Theme 3 covers social issues and trends.

● The positive impact of immigration on French society, the contributions of immigrants to the economy and culture.

● Responding to the challenges of immigration and integration in France.  Community activities; marginalization and alienation.

● The far right and the rise of the National Front; the leaders of the National Front; public opinion.

Theme 4: Occupation and Resistance This theme covers political culture.

● Occupied France Collaboration; anti-Semitism.

 ● The Vichy regime and the National Revolution.

How will I be assessed?

Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation) Written examination: 2 hours 40% of the qualification.

Paper 2: Written response to the book and film and translation Written examination: 2 hours and 40 minutes 30% of the qualification.

Paper 3: Speaking. Internally conducted and externally assessed Total assessment time: between 21 and 23 minutes, which includes a single period of 5 minutes’ formal preparation time 30% of the qualification. Students need to prepare an Individual Research Presentation on one of the topics from the course and describe a photo in-depth linked to one of the topics.

Is there anything else I need to know?

Classes are generally quite small to help with discussion in French and the course generally, which is advantageous in language learning.  Moreover, you will practise implementing new grammar in your work and see your own progress in regular assessments and vocabulary quizzes.  We are aiming to run an A-Level French trip, when possible, in collaboration with the Art Department.

Who can I contact for further information? Sophie.cooke@westsomersetcollege.org.

Website

Edexcel A level French (2016) | Pearson qualifications