French is undoubtedly one of the major world languages, with more than 300 million people speaking it across five continents. Not only does learning another language enrich the mind, but it also opens new opportunities, both personal and professional. Research has shown that people who are able to speak more than one language significantly increase their employability and earning potential, and this is certainly the case for French with its influence on domains such as cooking, fashion, theatre, the visual arts and architecture, to name but a few.
Entry requirements
To study at RSFC, you must have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs or equivalent at grade 4 or above across four separate subjects, including GCSE Mathematics and/or English Language. In addition, a grade 5 or above is required in GCSE French.
Why study this course?
Studying a foreign language teaches you all the skills that employers want in their employees: an analytical mind, good thought processes, cultural and intercultural awareness, good communication, and the ability to be a good team player. Speaking French might increase your salary by as much as 20% and it will give you a head start on any other potential employees.
What can you expect from A level French?
By studying French at A level, you will be exposed to varied sources and authentic French materials such as newspaper articles, videos and literary extracts. You will also discover more about French-speaking culture, which will help you gain a better understanding of the globalised world we live in.
KEY TOPICS - YEAR 1
You will build on previous knowledge from GCSE through the topics of:
• Family and how it has evolved in recent years in the French-speaking world
• Cyber society
• Volunteering
• French/French-speaking heritage and how it is celebrated
• French/French-speaking music
• French/French-speaking cinema
• You will also study a French film: ‘Au revoir les enfants’
KEY TOPICS - YEAR 2
You will develop critical skills and express your personal opinions through the topics of:
• The diversity of French-speaking societies
• The life of marginalised people in the French-speaking world
• How criminals are treated in the French-speaking world
• The political engagement of the French-speaking youth
• Demonstrations and strikes in the French-speaking world
• Politics and immigration
• You will also study a French novel
What can I do with a qualification in French?
There will be a range of opportunities where you can continue to use and further develop your language skills and knowledge of contemporary society. If you are interested in career paths such as business, diplomacy and foreign relations, travel and tourism, translation and journalism, then French is a great option for you.
How is this course assessed?
Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing (50% of the A level qualification)
Paper 2: Written response to film and text (20% of the A level qualification)
Paper 3: Speaking - individual research project and discussion (30% of the A level qualification)
Who is this course for?
If you are interested in languages and you enjoy learning about other cultures, A level French is for you. Learning a language at a high level will open many doors in higher education and job opportunities, alongside aiding in your travels. Fewer students your age are studying languages, so taking A level French will place you in an elite group of people whose linguistic skills are highly sought after.
