French

If you enjoy meeting and talking to people from other countries, finding out about their cultures and developing your knowledge of how language works, then studying A level French is an excellent choice for you!  Learning languages encourages you to:

• Meet people from different countries and find out more about them.
• Learn many skills which are useful in a wide range of careers, such as the ability to communicate clearly, be confident about speaking in public, use problem-solving strategies and write coherently.
• Develop critical thinking, creativity and independence.
• Add an international dimension to your choice of A level subjects, which is something many employers and higher education providers want.
• Have greater opportunities to work and/or study abroad, or work for companies in the UK with international links.
• Discuss interests, ideas and opinions with other people who speak the language.
• Learn more about countries where the language is spoken, and the people who speak it.
• Read books and watch films in their original language.
• Spend time abroad (e.g. at university or on a work placement).

Entry requirements and skills needed: You must have an enquiring mind and be prepared to work hard in class and in your independent study time. One of the great things about learning a language is that those people who are prepared to work will amass a broad vocabulary and a sound knowledge of grammar, both of which are essential for success at this A Level. We welcome students on the courses who have gained at least a grade 6 in their GCSE.

How will you be assessed?: You will take three exams. Paper 1 is 40% of the total marks available; Paper 2 is 30% and Paper 3 is 30%. 

Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation   In the listening section of this paper, you will answer multiple-choice and comprehension questions in French on a variety of recordings. In the reading section, you will also answer multiple-choice and comprehension questions in French, based on a variety of written passages. You will also translate a passage from French into English.

Paper 2: Written response to works, grammar and translation   In this paper you will write about two books, or one book and one film that you have studied throughout the year. There will also be a translation of a passage from English into French.

Paper 3: Speaking   Before this exam you will have 5 minutes to prepare a discussion based on a stimulus card you are given.  You will then discuss the topic of the card with your examiner, who is usually your teacher.  You’ll also give a presentation on an independent research project you will have conducted, on a topic you will have chosen. 

Progression: Language graduates have some of the highest success rates in gaining graduate jobs. Career opportunities range from hotel management to international banking and everything in between. High quality linguists are a rare commodity and much sought after!

What will you be able to do after you have completed the course?

People with language skills and knowledge usually have an advantage over people without them. They stand out as talented and successful people, with broad and exciting horizons.  Success at A Level French means you will:

• Add an extra international dimension to your personal skills profile which will impress people who read your CV.
• Be in a stronger position to get a job in companies with international links.

• Be able to work or study in a French-speaking country in later life.
• Progress to study a degree in French, or French and another subject, to further your knowledge of the language and culture.
• Find it easier to learn other languages later.
• Add a useful skill if the primary focus of your A Level subjects is not languages: languages support careers in a range of areas including management, business, science, STEAM and tourism.  

French A Level is taught in partnership with Sturminster Newton High School.  

You will have 50% of your lessons at Shaftesbury and 50% of lessons at Sturminster. This is an exciting opportunity to broaden your language learning experience as well as develop time management skills. Transport is provided as is at no cost.