LINEAR – AQA
A Level languages build upon your existing knowledge gained at GCSE, giving you a sound understanding of using your language in a variety of different situations – at home, abroad, with friends or in the workplace. Taking an A Level language course gives you the opportunity to focus on improving communication in the foreign language and developing your key skills. This is achieved through the study of interesting contemporary issues in a cultural context. Spanish is a facilitating A Level that is highly regarded by Universities and employers.
Languages are the key to the new, exciting multinational world we live in- don’t miss out!
Topics and skills
The specification is designed to develop linguistic skills alongside developing a knowledge of the culture and society of countries where Spanish is spoken. Students will broaden their vocabulary and develop their grammatical knowledge to be able to use the language more independently whilst developing their understanding of topics relating to Hispanic society, politics and culture. This will also include the study of a by a Spanish director in Year 12 and a book by a Spanish author in Year 13.
Assessment
Assessment is through 3 separate papers at the end of Year 13.
Paper 1: Reading , listening and writing 40% 2 hr 30
- Aspects of Hispanic society (modern and tradition values, cyberspace and Equal Rights
- Political landscape
- Artistic culture in the Hispanic world (Study of a film and a book from a Spanish speaking country)
- Grammar
- The paper tests reading, listening and writing skills through a series of exercises including a translation of a 100 word passage into English.
Paper 2 Writing 30% 2 hours
- Translation into Spanish of a passage of 100 words.
- 2 Essay questions to answer based on the book and the film studied during the course.
Paper 3 Speaking 16 minutes (plus 5 minutes preparation time) 30%
- Discussion of 1 sub theme based on a stimulus card (5-6 minutes)
- An individual project on a theme of students’ choice – 2 minutes presentation followed by discussion (9-10 minutes)
Entry Requirements
Students are required to achieve a grade B at GCSE to be able to study languages at A Level.
Expectations
In addition, to set tasks, students will be required to complete regular independent study throughout the course to boost vocabulary and key skills required for the subject. This could include independent reading and listening practice and certainly regular learning of vocabulary and grammar practice.
Outside of the Classroom
As well as taught lessons, students attend supplementary conversation classes to boost their proficiency in this skill area.
Reasons to Study this?
The subject is very highly thought of by employers and universities alike, learning a language gives you amazing opportunities in life. Some of our previous students are living proof of this!
Find Out More
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/spanish/a-level/spanish-2695
http://www.whystudylanguages.ac.uk/post16/why_languages