French in Key Stage 4

The GCSE course provides a natural progression from the work already done in Key Stage 3. It aims to develop the four language skills and to extend knowledge of the way the language works. Pupils follow the WJEC specification and study topics which build on their knowledge from KS3 such as family, home life, school and free time.  In class the Expo text book is used.

How is GCSE assessed?

Pupils sit exams in listening (20%) and reading (20%) at the end of Year 11, and complete speaking coursework throughout Years 10 and 11 (30%), which consists of taking part in a conversation and giving a presentation followed by a discussion. The writing coursework (30%) consists of two tasks completed in class, where pupils have access to dictionaries.

There is no final exam to assess speaking or writing! It is 100% coursework!

Why opt for French at GCSE?

Anyone who can speak French can communicate with around 200 million people in their own language for French is not only spoken in France but also in Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, several African nations and in many other countries around the world.

 

  • France is the nearest country to the UK on mainland Europe, and speaking the language is an indispensible tool for a trip abroad.  France is the top tourist destination in the world and the possibilities are endless when it comes to holidays, far too many to list here!
  • If you go on to study French at university you are much more likely to get a job than people with arts, humanities and media-related degrees.
  • Speaking French will enhance your job prospects as many employers will choose the candidate who can speak a foreign language over the one who can't.
  • One of the main reasons for companies losing business abroad is the inability to communicate in the client's language.
  • Speaking French will allow you to take advantage of your EU citizenship and travel and work within the European Union in countries such as Switzerland and Belgium, as well as France.
  • Speaking French gives you a better understanding of France's rich culture and heritage, as well as its fascinating history.
  • The ability to communicate in another language allows you to get to know new people and build new relationships, as well as communicate for day-to-day activities.
  • Speaking French is a real asset and can be combined with a degree in the sciences, law, business or politics. You often have the oppurtunity to spend a year abroad, studying your main subject in university in France, Belgium or even Canada

Back to previous page