Spanish A Level

Course Leader: Mrs S Cooke

What is it all about?

Choosing to study Spanish 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, it is also a global language spoken in a large part of the world.  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 Spanish is for you.  You will study different aspects of the Spanish - 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. We also learn about a Spanish book and film, which is chosen by the students from a long list.

What are the entry requirements?

A Level Spanish 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 Spanish 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: The evolution of Spanish society – in regard to the family, work and tourism in Spain

Theme 2: covers  the artistic and political culture of Spanish-speaking countries around the world

 ● Music Changes and developments; the impact of music on popular culture. • The media Freedom of expression; print and online media, on television and the impact on society and politics. ● Festivals and traditions Festivals, festivals, customs, and traditions.

Theme 3 : The impact of immigration in Spain.

Theme 4: From the General Franco dictatorship to democracy now. Covering the civil war and Franco’s time in power to moving to the royal family.

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 Spanish 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 planning   an A-Level Spanish Trip in 2024 to Málaga.  We also regularly look at current news stories in Spanish media.

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