At KES we are passionate about Modern Foreign Languages and the endless opportunities our subject offers to our students. Learning a foreign language also includes developing an understanding about the culture of different Francophone countries.
The MFL department look forward to working with you next year. In this GCSE course, you will be able to develop new skills and knowledge that will broaden your horizons and give you access to an international world of work, study and travel.
We follow the AQA 9-1 French GCSE, which is an examination-only qualification .
The GCSE is assessed in May/June of Year 11, with four examinations of listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Each skill is worth 25% and candidates are assessed at either foundation or higher level.
| EXAMINATION | Higher Tier | Foundation Tier |
|---|---|---|
| 25% Speaking | 9-12 minutes (+ preparation) | 7-9 minutes (+ preparation) |
| 25% Reading | 1 hour | 45 minutes |
| 25% Listening | 45 minutes | 35 minutes |
| 25% Writing | 1 hour & 15 minutes | 1 hour |
Vocabulary and grammar are covered in lessons, with vocabulary to learn and consolidate each week. Students will also have regular listening, reading, exam questions as well as translations to complete for homework and speaking questions and answers to practise. We also use a variety of interactive online tools to support learning in and outside the classroom.
Pupils study 3 themes over the course of two years, plus a variety of listening, reading, translation and grammar skills.
Theme 1:
Identity and culture
· Me, my family and friends
· Technology in everyday life
· Free-time activities
· Customs and festivals in French-speaking countries/communities
Theme 2:
Local, national, international and global areas of interest
· Home, town and region
· Social issues
· Global issues
· Travel and tourism
Theme 3:
Current and future study and employment
· My studies
· Life at school/college
· Education post-16
· Jobs, career choices and ambitions
Confidence
Excellent communication skills
Independent learning skills
Better memory
Understanding of how languages work through learning grammar
International mindedness
Access to further language study at 6th Form and in further education
The skills and confidence required to learn any other language in the future
A better chance of being accepted for competitive university/college courses, placements or jobs.