Subject Title: French

Lead Teacher:  Mrs J Mudd

Examining Body:  AQA

Level: GCSE 3651 Foundation/Higher

Why should I study this subject?

Language learning is challenging and interesting, even for the most able students.
Studying French will undoubtedly improve your communication skills.
You will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of cultural issues, eg the environment/ lifestyle.

What use will a qualification in this subject be to me when I leave school?
A Language qualification is highly valued by employers and further and higher education establishments. Many universities consider a foreign language at GCSE to be a core subject.
In a global economy language and communication skills are becoming increasingly essential.
Languages are not only for those wishing to become interpreters – they offer careers in catering, tourism, teaching, the Army etc.

How will this subject be taught and what will be expected from me?

French will be taught by specialist teachers. You will take part in speaking, listening, reading and writing activities. You are expected to take an active role in class, either in group work or answering questions in French.

Homework is an integral part of the course and you are expected to meet deadlines.

You can mix and match entry levels by taking some at Foundation and some at Higher. You will take a paper in each of the four skills. The choices you have are whether to do the Writing Paper or Written Coursework and which level you are taking.

How will the work be marked and assessed?
You will produce a minimum of three pieces of written coursework in the language. Your teacher will select the best three items to be assessed for moderation. This is worth 25%.
You will do a speaking test, taking part in a role play, giving a presentation in the language and answering general conversation questions. This is worth 25%.
You will do a listening paper, worth 25% – listening to messages, discussions etc.
You will do a reading paper, worth 25% – containing postcards, brochures, extracts etc.