French
Graveney School - Wandsworth
02086827000
Welham Road, Tooting, London, SW17 9BU
Course summary

AS (Year 12) Aspects of French-speaking society: current trends and issues, the changing nature of the family, the cyber-society, the place of voluntary work, Artistic culture in the French- speaking world, cultural heritage, contemporary francophone music, the cinema. We also study a film in depth. A Level (Year 13) Aspects of French-speaking society: current issues: positive features of a diverse society, life for the marginalised, how criminals are treated. Aspects of political life in the French-speaking world: teenagers, the right to vote and political commitment, demonstrations, strikes, politics and immigration. We will also study literature and you will study one book in depth. A lot of authentic material is used; news bulletins, newspapers, magazine articles, interviews, discussions, videos and film. Oral work is very important and there will be many opportunities to develop the ability to speak with confidence and accuracy, including regular lessons with the French Language Assistant. AS and A Level students also regularly use the languages multimedia room. Other skills developed The aim of the course is to develop language and study skills. The emphasis is on the practical use of French, the ability to communicate effectively in the spoken and written language and to exchange information, ideas and opinions. The course develops an awareness of French culture and society. This is achieved through watching films, through the press, radio and television. There is also an opportunity to take part in a one-week intensive Language trip to France. Career value Language skills are increasingly required by employers in a whole range of different sectors, languages can open doors for you, and can add real value to your salary. For those looking to stand out in a tough jobs market, and for those wanting to add oomph to their CV, learning French at A level could be just the thing. At degree level, you can combine further study of language with many non-language subjects. Many degrees, including languages, often allow you to undertake study abroad. A language A level is a facilitating subject and enables you to study a wealth of different subjects at degree level. Universities believe that learning a different language displays an ability to learn a subject that is challenging and useful while developing key skills. Languages are in the top 10 most respected A level subjects. If you are planning to travel post A levels, knowledge of another language as well as English can enhance your experience. Many employers value language skills due to the impressive communication skills gained through study and interaction with different people. A student’s view “I would definitely recommend French. I have not just learnt a language but developed an appreciation for an amazing culture. You won’t be disappointed, choosing to study A-level French was one of the best choices I have ever made; the course gives a fascinating depth to the language and culture. The best thing is double French will be something you look forward to and not something you dread. It is a huge leap from GCSE but everyone is in the same boat and the teachers ease you in gently. It really does get easier but it is also challenging. I’ve learnt so much from it. I think it’s staggering how much you improve over about 9 months. Once I got the hang of it, it became so much easier, which I think is the overall goal for any subject.”

Entry requirements

How you'll be assessed

AS (Year 12) Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing: Translation into English (1 hour 45 minutes) - 45% of AS Paper 2: Writing: One essay based on the film studied, translation into French (1 hour 30 minutes) - 25% of AS Paper 3: Speaking Exam: Discussion of two themes from the topics listed above (12 -14 minutes plus 15 minutes preparation time) - 30% of AS A Level (Year 13) Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing, including translation from French to English and from English to French (2 hours 30 minutes) - 50% of A level Paper 2: Writing: One essay on the film studied at AS , and one essay on a book studied at A level (2 hours) - 20% of A level Paper 3: Speaking: Discussion based on one of the themes from the topics above plus Independent Research Project on a topic of your choice (21–23 minutes (including 5 minutes supervised preparation time) - 30% of A level

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionLondon
Local AuthorityWandsworth
Ofsted RatingOutstanding
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressWelham Road, Tooting, London, SW17 9BU