French - AS/A2 WJEC
Why choose French?
Studying French at AS/A2 offers you the chance to enhance your language skills, learn about the culture and society of the French speaking world and also enhance your career prospects.
What can I expect to learn?
AS French tests all four language skills - listening, reading, speaking and writing; there is no literature content.
A2 French further develops these skills through the study of more advanced topics.
How will I learn?
You will use computerised, language-learning software and will do a variety of activities from whole class work to discussion groups and pair work.
You will also have access to a well developed VLE containing links to a wide range of sites as well as listening exams. A variety of resources is available in the Learning Resource Centre. You will also have the chance to participate in a variety of visits to improve your linguistic competence.
Module 1
Oral (40% of AS) - In the first part, there is a topic-based conversation for which you will be required to prepare themes from the main areas of study. The second part is a general conversation about personal interests, studies and future plans.
Module 2
(60% of AS) - Listening, reading and writing - You will have a variety of exercises based on short spoken excerpts and reading texts including some grammar and translation exercises into English. You will also have a short essay to write.
A2
You will develop the skills met at AS, and be tested in a similar way. This part of the exam process is also divided into two modules and together with AS makes up the full A Level qualification.
In terms of topics, you will cover environmental, social and political issues including current affairs, immigration and media, amongst others.
Module 3
Oral (40% of A2) - There is a structured discussion based on a short written stimulus linked to one of the A2 topics. In the second part, you will give a presentation, prepared in advance and then talk in detail about the issues raised.
Module 4
(60% of A2) Listening, Reading and Writing -You will have some translation as well as listening and reading comprehension. There will also be an essay to write based on one of the following: The World of Cinema; The World of Literature; and The Regions of France.
What subjects combine well with French?
French can be combined with any other A Level subject although it's often combined with English, business studies or a humanities or social science subject.
Where does this lead? What can I do next?
It can lead to a career in teaching, interpreting, translating, journalism and tourism, amongst others. The choice is endless!
What background, skills and achievements do I need?
A minimum of a grade B in GCSE French is required.
"The language of the age is never the language of poetry, except among the French."
Thomas Gray
