Examining Board – Edexcel
Subject Content
The course builds on and develops the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing acquired at GCSE. It also aims to develop a student’s awareness of the use of language and of its underlying basic structures and principles. This programme will equip students with the tools needed for further exploration of French, whatever their ultimate personal objectives: academic study, the world of work, leisure pursuits. In addition, the course seeks to enable students to understand and appreciate the culture and customs of a European nation.
Methods of Study
The study of French is both challenging and stimulating and students are encouraged to develop their wider reading and listening skills and grammatical knowledge through independent study. A lively enthusiastic approach to lessons is sought, so as to promote interaction between the group and the teacher. Tutor input plays a part in lessons but discussion and exploration of points raised is a key part of each lesson.
Methods of Assessment
The AQA examination consists of:-
AS: 2 Units
Unit 1: Listening, Reading and Writing – 70% of AS; 35% of A Level
2 hour written examination
- Listening comprehension
- Reading comprehension
- Writing task in the form of a 200 – 220 word essay
Unit 2: Speaking Test – 30% of AS; 15% of A Level
35 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation)
- Part 1 Discussion of a stimulus card (5 minutes)
- Part 2 Conversation (10 minutes)
A2 – 2 Units
Unit 3: Listening, Reading and Writing – 35% of A Level
2 hours 30 minutes examination
- Listening comprehension
- Reading comprehension
- Writing task in the form of an essay (minimum of 250 words)
Unit 4: Speaking Test – 15% of A Level
35 Minutes (including 20 minutes preparation)
- Part 1 Discussion of a stimulus card (5 minutes)
- Part 2 Conversation (10 minutes)
Entry Requirements
Students should enjoy speaking, reading and writing French and wish to extend their command of the language and they should have achieved at least grade B at GCSE. French can be combined successfully and beneficially with many other AS/A2 subjects, such as Science, History, Art and English.