GCSE French and Spanish 

The GCSE courses in French and Spanish are the same. The information below applies to both courses.
Good communication skills are vital in all jobs today. You can gain self-confidence as you learn to express yourself, present ideas, analyse issues and consider global events. Languages are highly regarded as an indicator of academic ability, and the best universities, colleges and employers choose students who have language skills to join them. It combines well with all other subjects.

WHAT WILL I STUDY? 

The course has 4 units. Two are assessed in examinations in the final year of study. The other two units are completed as non-examination assessments in your classroom, also in your final year of study. You will learn useful language that you could use in situations relating to leisure and wellbeing, travel and study or work. 

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? 

UNIT 1 - Speaking

Unit 1 is a speaking exam with your teacher. Firstly, you will read aloud a short sentence to show your understanding of  pronunciation. You will then take part in a role play. After this, you will give a short one-minute presentation that you will have prepared in advance and have a short discussion. Finally, you will take part in a short conversation with your teacher. This unit is worth 30% of the qualification. 

UNIT 2 - Reading and Writing 

Unit 2 is an assessment that you will complete in your classroom. In class before the assessment  you will study a film. During the assessment you will then write a written response (up to 200 words) in French/Spanish  about the film script you have studied. This unit is worth 15% of the qualification. 

 Unit 3 - Listening 

Unit 3 is a listening examination worth 20% of the qualification. You will listen to a range of speakers in French/Spanish  and will demonstrate your understanding of what you have heard by for example, answering multiple choice questions or questions in English. 

 Unit 4 - Reading and Writing 

Unit 4 is a written examination worth 35% of the qualification. For this assessment, you will read texts in French/Spanish and answers questions on them in English. You will also be required to complete a translation into English. Finally, you will be able to demonstrate your written language skills by writing up to 120 words in French/Spanish   from a choice of 3 questions. 

Careers

The great advantage of having skills in another language is that they can serve you throughout your life and career.  A qualification in an International Language shows that you are a good communicator, are willing to learn, adapt and step out of your "comfort zone". It may also interest you to know that in today's global business world, employees with skills in international languages are known to attract higher salaries! What's not to like? 

We aim to offer an International trip during the course.