French
Level 3
Qualification: A Level
Duration: 2 years
What will I study?
The A level course is designed to follow on naturally from GCSE, with equal emphasis placed on each of the four language skills: reading, listening, speaking and writing. During the course you will explore a wide range of exciting aspects that will help you develop not only your level of French to an advanced standard but also your knowledge of the society and culture, past and present, of France and other French speaking countries.
The course will cover themes such as:
(i) Social issues and trends in France and other French speaking countries – changes in the family, the ‘cyber-society’, voluntary work, crime.
(ii) Political and artistic culture in France and other French speaking countries – cultural heritage in the Francophone world, music, cinema, politics and immigration.
Additionally, the course also gives you the opportunity to learn more about France through the study of one film (La Haine) and a short novel (kiffe Kiffe Demain).
Grammar will be an important part of your French studies throughout the whole A level course as you will be able to understand and use the language in a more confident and successful manner as a result.
Study Visits
A study visit or an exchange to France (Paris, Vendée area, Bergerac, or elsewhere) is offered to both first and second students. This is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended for improving communication skills and giving you the opportunity to experience French culture and life.
Cost
Around £400-£450 for the residential study visit / exchange.
Assessment
Listening, reading, writing, translation and speaking skills will all be assessed through three exam papers.
Paper 1 – Listening, Reading and Translation (50% of A level grade)
Paper 2 – Writing (20% of the grade)
Paper 3 – Speaking (30% of the grade)
Entry Criteria
Grade 6 GSCE French.
Applicants with a grade 5, with a proven aptitude in the language, will require an interview with a language teacher.
Useful Supporting Courses
Languages support virtually every other choice of subjects, particularly English Language or Literature, the humanities and social sciences and business.
Careers:
French students regularly go into highly competitive areas such as law, business, management, consultancy, accountancy, international press agencies, the media, the Foreign Office, the performing arts and many others.
Some students also pursue careers that make special use of their language skills – in travel and tourism, teaching, translating/interpreting.
Culture Vulture
Check out our Culture Vulture link to see what takes your interest.
Flying start
Click the link and have a go at our 10-week learning plan to get you off to the best start.
A Level French Flying Start Tasks
Course Overview
Follow the link to see an introduction to the course, identifying what you will study with us in the first few months and what you might already know.