French - A Level

French is a living and evolving language. During the A Level you will study a variety of topics through the medium of the language and have the opportunity to gain a greater awareness of the concerns and interests of francophone countries and peoples. You will develop the ability to speak and understand French fluently in a variety of social contexts, and will equally have been exposed to a number of aspects of France’s historical and contemporary culture that have produced and developed the language.

As a variety of social issues are addressed during the study of French A Level, you will have the opportunity to learn about and debate current political, demographic and cultural concerns. You will also gain a broad understanding of French history, the spread of the French language around the globe, and conduct in depth analyses of examples of French literature and Arts.

What will I study in French?

AS Unit 1 and 2
The Media, Popular Culture, Lifestyle and Relationships. You will study a variety of topics, building your vocabulary and knowledge of grammar as you go. The course will address and illustrate the changing nature of French language, society and traditions, and make reference to, for example, the history and importance of French cinema, directors and actors; the range and style of French music; the fashion industry, couture and French celebrities; use of the internet, MP3s and mobile phones; the purposes and techniques of advertising; French food, drink and eating habits; the use and misuse of alcohol and drugs; the nature and impact of tourism; the importance of family and peer relationships; love, marriage and divorce.

A2 Units 3 and 4
The Environment, Multiculturalism and Contemporary Social Issues: Expanding on linguistic and cultural knowledge acquired in the AS, you will study issues such as France’s reliance on nuclear energy; pollution, pressure groups and environmental destruction; immigration from North and West Africa, the experiences of immigrant groups, immigrant identity and integration; and wealth, poverty, and law and order in modern French society.

Cultural Topics - You will have a choice of studying two options from the following five topics:

• The history, development and culture of a local French community or region: for example, Savoie.
• A historical period from the 20th century: for example, war time France.
• A French novelist: for example, Balzac.
• A French poet or dramatist: for example, Apollinaire.
• A French film director, musician, painter or architect: for example, Truffaut.

How will I be assessed?

The AS course is examined via a 2 hour listening, reading and writing section and an oral exam involving 20 minutes preparation and 15 minutes examination. The A2 course has a 2 hour 30 minute listening, reading and writing exam and the same pattern for the oral as the AS.

Do I need to have studied French before?

Yes, you should have achieved a B or above at GCSE Level.

Who will teach me?

Ghislaine Spain is French and passionate about all aspects of French culture. She has a degree in languages from the Sorbonne and over 20 years experience teaching French, English and Literature. Ghislaine is an oral examiner for all exam boards.

Patricia Theleste holds an Honours Degree in English Literature from l’Université de La Réunion (France) and a PGCE from the University of Leeds. She is new to Lansdowne this year and brings with her more than ten years experience in the teaching of languages in Italy and in the UK. Patricia also works as an examiner for the main examination boards, AQA, Edexcel and Cambridge IGCSE.

Which subjects complement French?

Other modern or historical languages, History, Geography and English Literature are all well suited to French. However, languages generally combine well with all A Levels

Which careers can follow a study of French?

All professions like to have recruits with a language. The nature of the modern world makes languages particularly suited to those working in transnational industries and financial institutions. Lawyers, bankers and a variety of business executives value this qualification.