Examining Board - Edexcel
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 German 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 German 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 Germany; this can be arranged within the Department.
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
The Edexcel examination consists of:-
AS – 3 modules
Paper 1 – 1 hour paper – Listening and Writing
Paper 2 – 2 hour paper – Reading and Writing
Paper 3 – 10-12 minute Oral exam which is internally conducted and externally marked.
These 3 papers are based on 3 topic areas – Day to Day matters/Society and The Working World.
A2 – 3 modules
Paper 4 – Oral exam (15 minutes)
Paper 5 – Coursework (2 essays 1 x 450 words 1 x 1000 words)
Paper 6 – A Listening (45 minutes)
B Reading (45 minutes)
C Writing (1 hour 15 minutes)
These papers are based on the three topic areas covered at AS level, plus the Environment, Citizenship and the International context covered in year 13.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Any student should enjoy speaking, reading and writing German and wish to extend his or her command of the language. Students should have achieved a B grade or better in GCSE German. German can be combined successfully and beneficially with many other AS/A2 subjects e.g. Science/History/Arts.