With our ever-increasing ties to Europe, knowledge of a European language is essential.

Many businesses have links with France and Spain, particularly the expanding tourist and service sectors. Learning a language can open many doors.

What topics will I study?

The course is divided into four contexts: > > > > Context 1 lifestyle Context 2 leisure Context 3 home and environment Context 4 work and education

What kind of class activities will there be?

As in Key Stage 3, you will take part in activities in all the language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing). Some activities will involve the use of ICT. Lessons will also include games, song, drama and cultural input.

What kind of homework assignments will there be?

You may be asked to prepare drafts for written coursework or grammar exercises to consolidate the work done in class. Some homework will be learning and you may also be asked to prepare oral work.

What percentage of the final GCSE grade is for coursework?

60% this is made up of two pieces of written coursework worth 30% and two speaking tasks worth 30%. The written work is prepared and completed in class under controlled conditions and is marked externally by the exam board. The speaking assessments are marked by your teacher and moderated by the exam board.

What percentage of the final grade is for examinations at the end of Year 11?
40%. This includes reading and listening papers.

What are the most interesting parts of the GCSE course?

The course also enables you to have a better understanding of how language works and gives you an insight into the culture of French or Spanish speaking countries. It is also possible to study two languages to GCSE, taking one from scratch, but you must have a good level in your first language and be prepared to work hard.

French or Spanish Option

What is the course about?