French

Course summary

WHY SHOULD I STUDY FRENCH? Choosing French A level allows you to not only build on the language skills you have learned at GCSE but also foster a much greater appreciation and deeper understanding of the culture and society of the Francophone world. The course provides our students with the opportunity to gain a range of transferable skills, including communication skills, critical thinking, research, and creativity, valued by universities and employers alike. The content is therefore suitable for students who wish to progress onto employment or further study including a modern languages degree or combined courses. The specification is designed to be studied over two years with examinations at the end of the two years. WHAT WILL YOU LEARN? The A-level course focuses on how the French-speaking society has been shaped, socially and culturally, and the continual changes that we see even today. First Year: The topics we study include the changing family trends, youth trends (technology and identity), education and careers, heritage, music, and film – a wonderful look at artistic life in French-speaking countries. Second Year: we look deeper into social and cultural issues such as life for those on the margins of French society as well as the positive influences that diversity brings. We also take a closer look at the political landscape and the historical topic of ‘Life in Occupied France and Post-War Years’. Students will study one film (La Haine) and one novel (No et Moi). Students will also develop their research skills in French, conducting a piece of research on a subject of personal interest, relating to France or other Francophone countries. Not forgetting expanding your knowledge of your grammar, and vocabulary and working hard on your speaking and writing skills with greater confidence.