Languages

Languages Department

The aims of language teaching are to :

  • develop understanding of the spoken and written forms of French / German in a range of contexts
  • develop the ability to communicate effectively in the language through both the spoken & written word using a range of vocabulary & structures
  • develop knowledge & understanding of the grammar of the language, and the ability to apply it
  • apply their knowledge & understanding in a variety of relevant contexts which reflect their previous learning & maturity
  • develop knowledge & understanding of countries & communities where the language is spoken
  • develop positive attitudes to language learning
  • provide a suitable foundation for further study and/or practical use of the language

DSC_7668

The study of Modern Languages is skills based. The 4 skills are :

  • Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Writing

Key Stage 3

In Year 8 pupils are randomly selected to study either French or German. In special circumstances parental choice may be considered. This request must be made before Intake Night.

Key Stage 4

 In Years 11 & 12 all Top Band pupils will study a language to GCSE level.

Middle Band pupils are given the option to continue with their language studies to GCSE level.

Languages for GCSE

Why choose Languages ?

Languages are simply becoming more and more important in career terms as there are so many opportunities in an almost limitless range of occupations for people with language skills at all levels.

 

GCSE

What will I study ?

The CCEA specification supports the aim of the Northern Ireland Curriculum to empower

young people to achieve their potential and to make informed and responsible

decisions throughout their lives, as well as its objectives:

  • to develop the young person as an individual;
  • to develop the young person as a contributor to society; and
  • to develop the young person as a contributor to the economy and environment.

The 4 units of speaking, writing, listening and reading are weighted equally.

 

Unit 1:Listening

External written examination with stimulus material in French.

There are two tiers of entry:

  • Foundation (35 mins approx.); and
  • Higher (45 mins approx.).

Students answer 12 questions. Four of these are the same in both tiers.

Unit 2:

Speaking

One teacher-conducted and externally marked speaking examination. There is one tier of entry. The test lasts 7-12 minutes, plus 10 minutes of supervised preparation time.

Each test includes:

  • two role-plays, both from the same Context for Learning; and
  • a general conversation on two topics, one from each of the other two Contexts for Learning.

Unit 3:

Reading

External written examination with stimulus material in French.

There are two tiers of entry:

  • Foundation (50 mins); and
  • Higher (1 hour).

Students answer 12 questions. Four of these are the same in both tiers.

Unit 4:

Writing

External written examination.

There are two tiers of entry:

  • Foundation (1 hour); and
  • Higher (1 hour 15 mins).

Students answer four questions. One of these is the same in both tiers.