Head of Department: Mrs McCalmont
If you enjoy learning new things by playing games, like travelling to or are interested in how people live in other countries or just want to be cool like Johnny Depp or Bradley Cooper, then learn how to speak some French.
As well as broadening horizons, learning French also increases pupil employability in an ever-growing European, and indeed global, market.
Pupils have the opportunity to work individually, in pairs and in groups. Listening, speaking, reading and writing skills are enhanced through the use of ICT.
The European Day of Languages is celebrated each year on 26 September with food tasting, dressing up, games and quizzes. Pupils can also put into practice what they have learned in the classroom by joining us on a trip to France.
Key Stage 3
In junior school our learning and teaching is based on the Studio series for French.
In year 8 we learn greetings, age, birthdays and dates, likes and dislikes, hobbies, colours, pets, family, countries and nationality.
In year 9 we cover physical descriptions, personality, school subjects, giving opinions with reasons, school timetable, food, computers and mobile phones, sport.
In year 10 we study town/village, what there is to see and do there, going on holiday, getting ready to go out, buying drinks and snacks, house.
Key Stage 4
GCSE (CCEA) French aims to develop the ability to communicate effectively in French and to understand French in a variety of contexts. It also develops awareness and understanding of countries and communities where French is spoken.
Theme 1: Identity, Lifestyle and Culture
- Myself, my family, relationships and choices
- Social media and new technology
- Free-time, leisure and daily routine
- Culture, customs, festivals and celebrations
Theme 2: Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest
- My local area and the wider environment
- Community involvement
- Social and global issues
- Travel and tourism
Theme 3: School Life, Studies and the World
- My studies and school life
- Extra-curricular activities
- Part-time jobs and money management
- Future plans and career
Pupils are entered for Foundation or Higher tier in Listening, Reading and Writing. There is only one tier of entry in Speaking. Candidates can “mix and match” tiers.
Paper 1 Listening
Paper 2 Speaking
Paper 3 Reading
Paper 4 Writing
Each paper is worth 25% of the overall marks.
Useful websites:
http://www.languagesonline.org.uk
http://education.vic.gov.au/languagesonline
http://www.francaisextra.co.uk
http://zut.languageskills.co.uk
http://bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize
Staff:
Mrs G McCalmont (Head of Department)