Course Overview
The course will build on your existing skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Through the study of themes such as being a young person in the French speaking world, you will develop an understanding of the culture and way of life.
You will enjoy the support of a native speaker for oral and general linguistic help and spend time in the language laboratory to practise listening and pronunciation skills.
The following topics will be studied with reference to French as well as in a wider global context as appropriate:
AS Level (year 1)
Theme 1:
Being a young person in French-speaking society
Family structures, traditional and modern values, friendships / relationships
Youth trends, issues and personal identity
Educational and employment opportunities
Theme 2:
Understanding the French-speaking world
Regional culture and heritage in France, French-speaking countries and communities
Literature, art, film and music in the French- speaking world.
A Level (year 2)
Theme 3:
Diversity and difference
Migration and integration
Cultural identity and marginalisation
Cultural enrichment and celebrating difference
Discrimination and diversity
Theme 4:
France 1940-1950: The Occupation and the post-war years
In addition, AS students will study one of the set films and A2 students will study one of the set novels.
18/10/22
Entry Requirements
GCSE profile to include French and English at grade B (Recommended).
Course Delivery
The course is delivered through four sessions that make up 4.5 hours a week.
You will learn using a variety of methods including group work, debates, role-play, and interactive listening activities. One session per week will be spent in the language laboratory.
We believe learning a language can only be learnt in its cultural environment, therefore we use authentic materials such as literature, films, music and the media to understand the historical, cultural, social and artistic contexts of French speaking countries. The students will also benefit from spending an extra 30 minutes per week with the French Assistant to practice their oral skills.
Examinations for both AS and A Level are sat in the summer. This course can be combined with other courses to make a full programme. It goes well with another foreign language and with A Levels in English Language, English Literature, Film Studies, Geography, History, Sociology or any other subject which may lead to an international career.
Progression Opportunities
Further study at university.
Our language students have gone on to successful destinations, such as studying History and French at Oxford, French and Russian at Cambridge and Law and French at the University of Exeter.
You could follow careers in teaching, journalism and international business.Speaking another language increases employability, improves communication skills, independence and self-confidence.
Additional Information
The department runs a partnership with a college in France each year and students are given full opportunities to practise their oral skills. We have also visited the University of Swansea to take part in A Level Language conferences. Many students pursue work experience opportunities during the summer vacation or before going to university. Students are encouraged to attend relevant cultural events in the local area e.g. French language films at the Taliesin.