Examining Board - Edexcel

Subject Content

The course aims to build upon the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing which have been acquired for 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 should then 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. (Students are encouraged to develop their wider reading and listening skills further 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. Students are encouraged to spend time in France; this can be arranged within the Department.

Methods of Assessment

The Edexcel examination consists of:-

AS - 2 modules

Unit 1 – Spoken Expression and Response

8-10 Minutes assessment in two parts:

• Respond to 4 questions on a stimulus in chosen topic area
• Discussion related to the chosen topic area but moving on to other themes

Unit 2 – Understanding and Written Response in French

2 Hours 30 Minutes:

• Listening Comprehension
• Reading Comprehension
• Writing 200-220 words

A2 - 2 modules 

Unit 3 - Understanding and spoken response

11-13 Minutes

• Chosen issue (1 minute presentation – 4 minutes defend your point of view)
• General conversation on a minimum of two further topic areas

Unit 4 – Research, Understanding and Written Response

2 Hours 30 Minutes

• Translation into French
• Language Essay
• Research based essay 240-270 words - related to one of the four research-based essay topic areas:
  • Geographical Area
  • Historical Study
  • Aspects of Modern French-speaking society
  • Literature and the Arts

Entry Requirements

Any student should enjoy speaking, reading and writing French and wish to extend his or her command of the language. Students should have achieved a B grade or higher in GCSE French. French can be combined successfully and beneficially with many other AS/A2 subjects e.g. Science/History/Arts/English.