A Level French

Board: Edexcel
Head of Department: Linda Conroy

French is not just an A-level! A language is a skill for life!

After the initial transition period period based on consolidating verb tenses and major GCSE grammar points, we start teaching topics from the General Topic Areas prescribed by Edexcel. Though the A Level Edexcel textbook is our reference, we also select a variety of high quality current resources from a selection of sources: Au Point, Authentik (a collection of articles and recorded news items), TV5, etc.

Individual research and guided independent learning are also encouraged as they constitute an essential aspect of Units 2, 3 and 4: watching French news and, reading in French (magazines, books etc.).

Films from European directors, works of literature, and painters' prints are often used as a basis for teaching. As immersion has invaluable impact on a student's language learning, emphasis will be put on trips and study visits; we currently run language trips abroad. This will enhance linguistic learning as well as cultural awareness. The King Alfred School MFL department is a member of ISMLA (Independent Schools Modern Languages Association) and joins in the nationwide annual debating competition in French. Fortnightly mini debating competitions take place in school in order to prepare (and enthuse!) candidates.

AS

Module 1: Spoken Expression + Response in French 30% 8 – 10 mins

Module 2: Understanding and Written Response in French 70% 2h 30 mins

A2

Module 3: Understanding and Spoken Response in French 17.5% 11 – 13 mins

Module 4: Research, understanding and written response in French 32.5% 2h 30 mins

Entry requirements

An A grade in French is desirable and all modules for GCSE must have been taken at higher level.