French GCSE

Exam Board: (Edexcel 1FRO)

Exams:          100%

Units: 

    Listening 25%                                                 

    Speaking 25%

    Reading Translation 25%

    Writing + Translation 25%

Course Summary + Controlled Assessment/Overview of content:

The course is designed to help students develop their ability to use French for practical communication i.e. to speak French, to understand spoken and written French and, where appropriate, to write in French. It will count towards the English Baccalaureate and is also a prerequisite for entrance in some universities.

The course aims to encourage interest in language-learning. The language skills developed will form the basis for further study, not just for those who wish to continue at Sixth Form level, but also for those who might resume their study of French, or even embark on another language, at some later date.

In addition, the ability to use a foreign language, and gaining a recognised qualification, will be an asset for employment in a wide range of jobs. This is particularly important in view of the increased competition for vacancies and the increasing contact with Europe in the worlds of work and leisure.  Being able to speak and understand French and knowing something of the French way of life as a result of this course will make holidays in France, and other French speaking countries, far more enjoyable.

As the emphasis is on communication, the course is skill-based and students will be prepared for examinations in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading/translation and writing/translation as they might be used in a variety of situations in real-life.

All groups in French will be following the new Edexcel syllabus with the opportunity to take the exam at Foundation or Higher Level, with candidates being eligible for the award of different grades according to the level for which they are entered.

The best way to practise communication in French is to visit France or a French speaking country, and for this reason students are actively encouraged to visit France. Whenever possible we try to organise a trip to France during KS4 to give students this opportunity.

Skills needed to study this subject:  Academic skills, using a dictionary and developing their own vocabulary knowledge, memory skills and presentation skills.

Possible Careers + Future Study: Translating, teaching, business, commerce, finance, law, pharmaceutical, scientific research, engineering, armed forces, civil service media and entertainment, as well as tourism.