Introduction

Studying a modern foreign language will enable you to improve your communication skills and confidence, as well as allowing you to express your ideas, interests and opinions to speakers of your chosen language. It will deepen your understanding of how languages work, will stimulate your cultural knowledge and can enhance your understanding of many other subjects including English, Music, Mathematics and ICT.

Language lessons give pupils an opportunity to understand and use Spanish across a wide range of topics. Pupils regularly work on developing their skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. We also encourage pupils to gain an understanding of the differences and similarities between languages and make links to the English curriculum.

At Gartree High School pupils have a taster course of Spanish at the end of Year 8 and then can opt to do two lessons of Spanish and one lesson of French in Year 9.

Key Stage 4

Students start the GCSE Spanish course in Year 9 and follow the AQA three-year scheme of work.

Exam Board

AQA Spanish 8698

Desired entry requirements

Studying a modern foreign language is an English Baccalaureate requirement.

How the course is assessed

This is a linear course which consists of three equally weighted final exam papers (Listening 25%, Reading 25%, and Writing 25%), the remaining 25% will be an externally moderated, teacher-assessed speaking task.

Course overview

The course consists of three broad themes: Identity and Culture; Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest; Current and Future Study and Employment. Within these themes, the course covers a variety of topics including Technology in Everyday Life, Customs and Festivals in French and Spanish-speaking countries and communities, The Environment and Jobs, Career Choices and Ambitions. In exploring these topics students will develop their ability in all four language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), as well as gaining a fuller understanding of the world around them.

You can expect to:

• Develop an understanding of your chosen country and culture through the use of authentic materials including newspaper articles, poems and film.
• Improve your spoken communication, confidence and public speaking skills in your chosen language.
• Explore a wide range of topics including new technologies, social and global issues and future career choices and ambitions.
• Develop problem-solving strategies.
• Enhance your knowledge of how a language is structured.

Other useful information

Achieving proficiency in a Modern Foreign Language at GCSE requires a commitment to independent study and regular revision. You can make use of a range of online resources as well as materials available in school to help you progress.