M O D E R N   L A N G U A G E S
F R E N C H   &    S P A N I S H
EDEXCEL: AS AND A LEVEL COURSES

INTRODUCTION
Who is this course suitable for?
If you are interested in languages and communication, and you enjoy learning about other cultures and ways of life, then this course could be suitable for you. Similarly, if you are interested in the business world, in travel or tourism, in literature, or in journalism and the media, then you are also likely to find the course appropriate. There are a number of options in the course where you can choose your topic or question to suit your interests. Whether you want to use language for work, for further study, training, or for leisure, this course will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

Candidates are encouraged to:
Develop the knowledge and skills acquired at GCSE and therefore use French or Spanish in a wide range of contexts. Gain a useful insight into another culture and reflect various aspects of contemporary society. Enhance their employment prospects, facilitate foreign travel and experience the enjoyment and motivation of improving their linguistic skills. Entry Requirements - normally GCSE pass, preferably Grade B or above.

Content
AS Unit 1 – Listening, Reading and Writing

Written Paper: 2 hours

Weighting: 70%of total AS

35% of total A level marks

Candidates will answer a range of questions based on heard material and on a selection of written stimulus texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on one of the AS topics.

Unit 2 – Speaking Test

Written Paper: 35 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation time)

Weighting: 30% of total AS

15% of total A level marks

Candidates will discuss a target-language stimulus card based on one of the AS topics and take part in a conversation covering three further AS topics.

A2 Unit 3 – Listening, Reading and Writing

Written Paper: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weighting: 35% of total A level marks

Candidates will answer a range of questions based on heard material and on a selection of written texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on one of the four A2 cultural topic areas.

Unit 4 – Speaking Test

Written Paper: 35 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation time)

Weighting: 35% of total A level marks

Candidates will present a point of view based on a target-language stimulus card from one of the A2 topic areas and take part in a conversation covering three further A2 topics.

Looking Further Ahead
There will be a range of opportunities open to you, where you can continue to use and further develop your language skills and knowledge of contemporary society. Some students choose to do degree courses in languages; others choose to pursue a higher education course in another subject, but choose a language option alongside it. Having a language at AS or A2 will improve your employability, in particular with companies which have international branches. Whether you are interested in continuing your studies or working at home or abroad, a language course at AS or A2 is an excellent step towards achieving your goals.