French

Summary of the course

The AQA GCSE French course is designed to transition students from basic vocabulary to authentic fluency. By exploring three broad themes, students develop the ability to communicate across various real-world contexts while gaining a deep understanding of the French culture.The curriculum is structured around the following thematic areas:

The Core Themes

Theme 1: People and LifestyleThis theme focuses on the student's personal world. You will learn to discuss identity and relationships, explore the habits of healthy living, and articulate your ambitions regarding education and the workplace. It provides the essential vocabulary for introducing yourself and your life to others.

Theme 2: Popular CultureHere, the language becomes more social and creative. Students dive into free-time activities, explore the vibrant world of celebrity culture, and learn the significance of French customs, festivals, and celebrations. This theme is vital for understanding how French-speaking communities relax and celebrate.

Theme 3: Communication and the World Around UsThis theme looks outward at global issues. You will cover travel and tourism, the evolving role of media and technology, and the challenges facing the environment and our local communities. It equips students to navigate foreign travel and engage in discussions about the future of our planet.

Further information

See here for many reasons for the importance of studying a language.
https://www.all-languages.org.uk/research-practice/why-study-languages/

We follow the AQA exam board. Here’s the link if you want a closer look. https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/french/gcse/french-8652/specification/specification-at-a-glance

What could this course lead to

Mastering a language is a "career multiplier." In a global economy, French isn't just a school subject - it’s a high-value skill that sets you apart in competitive fields like Game Design, Law, Engineering, and Journalism.

The Career Edge
Employers highly prize language skills because they represent communication expertise and cultural intelligence.

Awarding body

AQA

Assessment

To ensure a balanced mastery of the language, students are assessed equally across four skills, each worth 25% of the final grade:

Paper 1: Listening: Understanding and responding to different types of spoken French.

Paper 2: Speaking: Communicating effectively in a conversation, a role-play, and a photo-card discussion.

Paper 3: Reading: Understanding and responding to different types of written language, including a short translation from French into English.

Paper 4: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing for a variety of purposes, including a translation from English into French.

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