German

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

SPECIFICATION CODE: 7662

EXPECTED GCSE REQUIREMENTS: A MINIMUM OF GRADE 7 AT GCSE IS REQUIRED TO BE SUCCESSFUL AT A LEVEL.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

The A Level course covers a range of cultural, social and political topics. In Lower Sixth, you will discuss themes such as technology, art and architecture, and youth culture. In Upper Sixth, you will debate issues such as immigration and German politics.

You will develop your language skills by using spoken and written material taken from authentic and up-to-date sources.

You will also gain many transferable skills in spoken and written communication and research.

You will study a film and a play, allowing you to develop your analytical skills and gain an insight into historical and cultural issues.

In Upper Sixth, you can choose an individual research topic on an aspect of German culture or society which particularly interests you and discuss your findings in the oral examination.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

There are 3 papers:

Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Writing, including translation (50%)

Paper 2: Writing (literature essays) (20%)

Paper 3: Speaking (30%)

Paper 1 Translation is from German into English and Paper 2 Translation is from English into German. In Paper 3, you will complete an Independent Research Project which you will discuss in the speaking examination. This NEA element allows you to develop your research skills and investigate a topic that is of interest to you about the Germanic world.

WHERE WILL THIS TAKE ME?

German complements studies in a range of other subjects, such as history, politics and sociology. For scientists, learning a language allows you to develop a broader range of skills and expands your employment opportunities. With German at A Level, you will be equipped to live and work in a German speaking country or use the language professionally in this country. Having a second language will give you a distinct advantage in the job market. Germany remains one of Britain’s most important trading partners, with German being the most sought-after language amongst British employers.

You can choose to study German at university as a single subject, or in combination with many other subjects such as law or business. Many universities offer languages as an additional qualification alongside your degree.

WHAT ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES ARE THERE?

There are opportunities to join in speed debating events at other schools, and seminars and lectures with organisations such as the Goethe Institut and the British Film Institute.

Work experience in Germany can be organised through an external provider, allowing you to build confidence in your language skills and gain an insight into the world of work abroad.