Modern Languages

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.