A level French

Awarding Body: Edexcel

Course Details

Units at AS

1.Youth culture and concerns
2.Lifestyle, health and fitness
3.Travel, tourism, environmental issues and target language speaking world
4.Education and employment

Units at A2

4.Customs, traditions and beliefs
5.National and international events, literature and the arts

Within the framework of these themes, students will continue to study the four skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) in a more integrated manner.
Students are asked at As and A2 to demonstrate understanding of spoken and written response and personal expression.

In addition at A2 research and written analysis is emphasized.

The programme features 2 units at each level.

Work Experience

A level students will have the opportunity to complete a work experience placement in Limoges for a week in Year 13.  The linguistic benefits are often complemented by improved social skills.  Universities view this scheme very favourably.

Skills required to start the course

A level students are required to be competent in all skill areas, discussion becomes increasingly important at this level.  A willingness to explore new ideas and give opinions on issues is essential.  A keen interest in francophone issues and the study of society is important.

GCSE Entry Requirements

In order to study French at AS and A level, students should have attained GCSE at higher tier.

Possible Career Pathways

Many university courses now offer language components because the business world now acknowledges the importance of international trade.  Opportunities are available in law, banking, export, travel, marketing and advertising.

Linguistic competence at either AS/A2 level is widely valued not only as a communicative tool  but also due to the transferable cognitive skills and the analytical discussion which form an integral part of the course.