French

Exam Board: Edexcel Syllabus: A-level 9FRO Consult: Miss Hardy

WHY STUDY THE SUBJECT? We believe languages should appeal to all students. The A-level in French has been developed to inspire all students who have an appreciation of the language, literature, film and culture of the Frenchspeaking world. Students will gain an advanced level of knowledge and understanding of the French language, the culture of France and other francophone countries, as well as practical and valuable language and transferable study skills. The skills will help to prepare students for higher education and enhance their employability profile.

CONTENT AND BREAKDOWN There are 4 themes to be covered for the A-level and each theme also covers several sub-topics. The main themes are as follows: • Theme 1: Changes in French society • Theme 2: Political and artistic culture in

French speaking countries • Theme 3: Immigration and the French multicultural society • Theme 4: The Occupation and

Resistance

In Year 12, students study themes 1 and 2. At A-level, students add the study of themes 3 and 4.

As part of the A-level course, students study two works. The film for French this year is ‘Intouchables’ and the novel is ‘Un Sac de Billes’ by J. Joffo. In Yr13 students will also have the opportunity to work on an Independent Research Project about any aspect of France or another francophone country. Students present and discuss their research in the speaking exam.

ASSESSMENT UNITS FOR A-level • Paper 1: Listening, Reading and

Translation - 2 hours, 40% of qualification • Paper 2: Written response to works and

Translation – 2 hours 40 minutes, 30% of qualification • Paper 3: Speaking – 30% of qualification

EXTRACURRICULAR Sixth Form Study Weekend to Paris and a French cinema day at the Institut Français in London.

AFTER ASHCOMBE French is one of the main European languages and as such is valued in combination with many other skills and subject areas, including science, technology, the arts and commerce. Students with a good pass at A-level have access to a wide range of interesting career options in tourism, banking, law, exports and within multi-national companies with their own opportunities for travel and work both in the UK and around the world.