Qualifications: GCE A Level

Exam Board: AQA

Entry Requirements: Grade B or above in your chosen language.

Overview

Did you know:

• on average, people who use languages in their jobs earn 8% more than their non-linguist colleagues?
• 90% of the world’s population live in a country where English is not their native tongue?
• internet users are three times more likely to buy when addressed in their mother tongue?
• 60% of British trade is with non-English speaking countries?

At Kennicott we offer two languages at A Level: French and Spanish.

What will I learn?

The A-level for Spanish and French builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE. It constitutes an integrated study with a focus on language, culture and society. It fosters a range of transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, research skills and creativity, which are valuable to the individual and society. The content is suitable for students who wish to progress to employment or further study, including a modern languages degree.

The approach is a focus on how the native-speaking society has been shaped, socially and culturally, and how it continues to change.  In the first year, aspects of the social context are studied, together with aspects of the artistic life of native-speaking countries. In the second year further aspects of the social background are covered, this time focusing on issues, such as life for those on the margins of French or Spanish-speaking society as well as looking at the positive influences that diversity brings. Students also study aspects of the political landscape in the native-speaking country.

Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of themes relating to the culture and society of countries where the native language is spoken, and their language skills. They will do this by using authentic spoken and written sources in the native language. As part of the cultural side of the course, we analyse in depth one piece of literature and a film, both topics are relevant for those students keen on continuing language studies further at University.

In order to develop language skills and have first-hand experience of the culture of the country, the College runs study trips abroad and language days out, language experiences in Spanish and French restaurants in the area. We also offer links with Plymouth and Exeter University MFL departments.

How will I learn?

Students can expect a varied, interactive and dynamic learning experience to develop listening, reading, writing and speaking skills. They will have the opportunity to analyse, evaluate, debate and develop personal views on the topics studied.  Language games, film reviews, PowerPoint presentations and discussions with our native language assistants are examples of the types of activities a student can expect. The aim is to develop and enrich language skills in a purposeful yet enjoyable way.

Where could it lead?

Students in the MFL department achieve excellent results and a number go on to study languages at university. You will find that there are lots of exciting new courses on offer at universities in the UK and abroad, and that a foreign language teams up well with many other subjects.  More and more jobs require a good knowledge of a foreign language so, when you have these skills, you will be in demand in the job market.

Contact

Debbie Burman: Faculty Leader                 dburman@kingedwardvi.devon.sch.uk