French

Course Detail:

Qualification: GCSE French
Exam Board: AQA
Specification: 8658

Subject Leader – Mrs S. Stewart-Grey

What is GCSE French?

In the GCSE French course, you will continue to learn how to speak, read and write French – skills much in demand.  You will also increase your understanding of speakers of French:  44 countries have French as their first language.

Course Overview

In the video below, Mrs Stewart-Grey, Subject Leader for Languages, explains the different topics you will study on the French course:

You will study:

• Theme 1: Identity and Culture
• Theme 2: Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest
• Theme 3: Current and Future Study and Employment

You will take 4 final exams at the end of year 11 – the listening, speaking, reading and writing papers are all equally weighted at 25% each.  The listening, reading and writing papers are all written exams of varying length, depending on whether you are entered for the Foundation or Higher papers.  Your speaking will be assessed in a non-exam assessment.  You will have to perform a role-play, describe an image and have a general conversation with your teacher.  The Foundation assessment will last 7-9 minutes plus preparation time and the Higher assessment will last 10-12 minutes plus preparation time.  Lessons include a variety of teaching and learning styles and you will work alongside native French speakers and use authentic French resources during your studies.

Lunchtime and after school sessions will be offered to help you prepare for the speaking tests.

With further training or study, learners may progress into a wide range of careers – a French GCSE opens up a range of career options and alongside the more obvious careers in travel and leisure / tourism, can also lead to careers in retail and business management, international trade, education, banking and law.

Got A Question?

If you have a question about Year 9 French courses you can use the form below to contact Mrs Stewart-Grey, Subject Leader for Languages.