French

Entry Requirements

Unlike most other Sixth Forms, we have no minimum entry requirement at Chetham’s; you are here based on your musical ability. However, if you do not achieve at least a Grade 4 in English Language and Maths in Year 11 then you should re-take the GCSE in Year 12 as these are essential qualifications for future employment. You will be given help to do so. Students who decide to embark on the study of languages in the Sixth Form need to be realistic. The study of languages post-16 is rewarding and stimulating, but also demanding, and it represents a significant jump from the ‘survival’ language situations of GCSE courses. There is a strong emphasis placed on grammatical structure and accuracy, and dictionaries will not be allowed in the examinations. Students must therefore be prepared to spend time acquiring breadth and depth of vocabulary, and also developing and applying the grammatical concepts that become an increasingly important part of language learning post-16. Anyone embarking upon an A-level course should have achieved Grade A or A* at GCSE and, given the oral nature of the course, should show a willingness to speak in class and offer opinions, and an awareness of the moral, ethical, and social problems facing us today. A willingness to spend time independently in the country concerned is also very important. In addition to lessons, students will be expected to spend a minimum of 5 hours a week on independent study i.e. fostering their reading and listening skills, researching vocabulary and writing in French or German, as well as attending small-group sessions with the language assistant. Students who are considering opting for a language at A-level but are unsure of their suitability or ability, should not hesitate to speak to their subject teacher: (s)he is in the best position to give sound advice.