Modern Languages

Modern Languages

     

         Year 12 students talking about language learning 

Entry Requirements: GCSE 6 in the language you wish to study

Studying a modern foreign language at A level is an exciting, challenging yet rewarding adventure. Languages can take you in so many directions and our small class sizes will allow you to excel and gain in confidence.

FRENCH

In the first year students study social and technological change alongside highlights of French-speaking artistic culture, including francophone music and cinema.

Students also explore the influence of the past on present-day French-speaking communities.

Throughout their studies, they will learn the language in the context of French-speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study a text or a film.

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-speaking society as well as looking at the positive influences that diversity brings. Students also study aspects of the political landscape in a French-speaking country, e.g immigration.

Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of themes relating to the culture and society of countries where French is spoken. They will do this by using authentic spoken and written sources in French.

The choice of works (literary texts and films) offers opportunities to link with the themes.

Click here to access the exam specification   Click here to read a student essay  

GERMAN

In the first year students study social and technological change. They will study highlights of German-speaking artistic culture, including art and architecture.

Students will explore the influence of the past on present-day German-speaking communities.

Throughout their studies, they will learn the language in the context of German-speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study a text or a film.

In the second year, further aspects of the social background are covered, alongside the German political landscape, both in relation to Germany itself and its place in Europe. The past and its role in shaping the present is viewed through the reunification and its consequences while the focus on young people and politics looks forward to shaping the future of German-speaking countries.

Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of themes relating to the culture and society of countries where German is spoken, and their language skills. They will do this by using authentic spoken and written sources in German. The choice of works (literary texts and films) offers opportunities to link with the themes.

Click here to access the exam specification    Click here to read a student essay  

 

ASSESSMENT (For French and German courses)

Assessment tasks will be varied and cover listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.

 If you have any further queries about this subject please email enquiries@beverleyj6.co.uk

Career Opportunities:  A thorough knowledge of a Modern Foreign Language can form a strong foundation for a career in European Business.  The career opportunities for those speaking a foreign language are immense.  A Modern Foreign Language can be studied in Higher Education on its own or in combination with other subjects eg.  Business Studies, Law, Tourism etc.  As well as teaching, translating and interpreting, a qualification in Modern Foreign Languages is an important asset in many other spheres - including commerce, industry and communications.

 

 

Student Quote

I chose to do German because I really enjoyed learning the language throughout my time at school, particularly at GCSE. I like how the class sizes are much smaller which allows more one to one with the teachers and I also like how the course incorporates a wide range of skills and units. Although a lot of work needs to be put in, I know it will all be worth it in the end as I know that languages are highly regarded by universities. (Y12 German student)

Studying a new language has been so useful when travelling and meeting new people- whether it be family, friends or members of the public, at work. It has taught me so much about English too, giving a deeper understanding of our language. What’s brilliant too is that it makes it so much easier to learn other languages, you train your brain to become a sponge to soak up other languages! (A former student)

As a trainee teacher, I am aiming to inspire a love of language learning in my future pupils in the same way I was inspired at @beverleyj6  The skills and passion I developed in my 2 years studying at sixth form continued into my training.   (Amelia) 

For me, learning a language is an obvious choide. Not only does it teach you about the culture and dialect of another country but it also provides so many opportunities, whether that be travelling, work opportunities or even new career paths. It helps to set you apart from the rest - it's a great thing to have on your CV, so do it! (Year 12 student)

I picked German as a subject because I have the aspiration to go and live in Germany. But it's not only that...there are studies showing that learning a new language improves the brain's functions e.g. memory and can even offset dementia.

I chose to learn German at A-level because it is an excellent skill to know a foreign language. University applications favour bilingual students. Nothing in language learning is more fulfilling than interacting with native speakers in their language which I was able to do on a trip to Berlin in February of 2019. Smaller class sizes improve the learning experience and build your confidence. Learning German at A-level is probably more enjoyable than at GCSE with more opportunities to learn about German history and culture. I strongly recommend taking German in the sixth form.