A Level German

Syllabus

AQA German

Student Skills Required

The course builds on the communication skills developed for GCSE to enable students to communicate effectively and with confidence in a German-speaking environment.

Course Content

A broad range of topics will be introduced and exploited, using books, magazines, newspapers and videos, so that students acquire a deeper understanding of the language through both reading and listening comprehension. These activities lead into discussion, debate or role-play and eventually to written assignments and essay work. Students will develop their own awareness of different ideas and cultures through preparation for coursework - this may include study of a literary text.

Year 12 AS Level German

The AS course will cover the following topics:

• media
• popular culture
• healthy living/lifestyle
• family/relationships

Assessment

Unit 1: Listening, reading and Writing
Externally examined
Written paper: 2 hours
Weighting: 70% of total AS / 35%of total A level marks for Listening, Reading and Writing

Unit 2 Speaking Test
35 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation time)
Weighting: 30% of total AS / 15% of total A level marks

Year 13 – A2 Level German
The A2 course will cover topics in the following areas:

• environment
• the multi-cultural society
• contemporary social issues
• cultural topics

Assessment

Unit 3 Listening, reading and Writing
Externally Examined
Written Paper: 2 hours 30 minutes
Weighting: 35% of total A level marks for Listening, Reading and Writing

Unit 4 Speaking Test
35 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation time)
Weighting: 15% of total A level marks

Teaching Styles/Methods

Classes will be conducted mainly in the German language. There will be an emphasis on language as an effective means of communication, with group and pair work playing an important part. Students are expected to initiate discussion and to put forward their own ideas to the rest of the group. Students are also expected to develop their own language skills independently - this would include reading widely, using radio and TV and using every opportunity to visit an appropriate foreign country. It is hoped that they will appreciate the enormous pleasure and enjoyment to be derived from their contact with the customs of another country and from the ability to communicate with native speakers.

Career Opportunities

A thorough knowledge of a Modern Foreign Language can form a strong foundation for a career in European Business. The career opportunities for those speaking a foreign language are immense as we move into the 'Global Village' of the new Millennium. A Modern Foreign Language can be studied in Higher Education on its own or in combination with other subjects eg Business Studies, Law, and Tourism etc. As well as teaching, translating and interpreting, a qualification in Modern Foreign Languages is an important asset in many other spheres - including commerce, industry and communications.