German

GCSE GERMAN

What does the course involve?

At GCSE you will develop the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. The topics studied will be:

  1. My world

    • Self, families, friends
    • Interests/hobbies
    • Home/Local environment
    • Daily routine
    • School/future plans

  2. Holiday time/travel

    • Travel/transport/finding the way
    • Tourism
    • Accommodation
    • Holiday activities
    • Services

  3. Work and lifestyle

    • Home life
    • Healthy living
    • Jobs/work experience
    • Leisure
    • Shopping

  4. The Young person in society

    • Character/personal relationships
    • The environment
    • Education
    • Careers
    • Social issues/choice/responsibilities

How is it all examined?

The final examination comprises:

  1. 1.An oral test lasting approximately 10 minutes which includes:
    a)A role-play situation
    b)A presentation and discussion
    c)General conversation
  2. 2.A reading test (lasting 50 minutes)
  3. 3.A listening test (lasting 40 minutes)
  4. 4.Coursework

What do I have to do for the coursework?

You will write at least 3 coursework assignments. One of the assignments must be completed under controlled conditions.

Visits to France/Spain/Germany

We would encourage students to participate in the trips organised by members of the Modern languages department. The benefits of these are self evident.

A Level Introduction

Do I have the necessary skills?

You will need to have achieved at least a Grade B in GCSE German. You will need to feel confident in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking skills. You must also have some knowledge and understanding of German culture and history

Who is this course suitable for?

The course is ideal if you are interested in languages and communication, and you enjoy learning about other cultures and ways of life. 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 useful. Whether you want to use language for work, further study, or leisure the course will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

What will I learn on this Advanced GCE course?

The course will enable you to communicate at a higher level in German. You will develop your knowledge and understanding of contemporary German culture. The topics you will cover in depth during the course include; Family Life, Health, The Media, Crime and Punishment, The Third World, The Environment and Germany since reunification.

How is it examined?

Three AS units are taken at the end of the Lower Sixth for an AS level qualification. A further three A2 units are taken at the end of the Upper Sixth to complete the full A level.

AS

Unit 1: Listening and Writing (1 hour)

You will have control of the recording and may stop, rewind and replay it as you wish. You will answer questions in German and in English on material related to contemporary German culture and society.

Unit 2: Reading and Writing (2 hours)

You will be read various passages in the target language relating to contemporary German culture and society. You will answer questions in German and in English. One passage will be a Ãý�stimulus’ for a written task of 140-160 words in the form of a letter, report or article in German.

Unit 3: Prepared Oral Topic (10-12 minutes)

You will prepare a 1-2 minute presentation on a topic of your choice relating to contemporary German culture and society. The presentation is followed by a discussion about key aspects of the topic.

A2

Unit 4: Oral Discussion of Issues (15 minutes)

This examination tests your ability to argue and to cope with spontaneous discussion in German. You will explore an issue of your choice that relates to contemporary German culture and society. You will outline the issue to the examiner for 1 minute, taking a definite stance towards it. You will then have to defend this stance, arguing your point of view. A discussion on two further unpredictable issues will follow.

Unit 5: Topics and Texts (2 hours)

You will study two literary texts. You will answer an examination question on each text in German (250 words each). This unit tests your knowledge of the texts and your ability to organise and develop ideas.

Unit 6: This unit is divided into three sections as follows;

Section A: Listening and Writing (45 minutes)

You will listen to two passages of recorded material and answer questions in German. You will also write a summary in English of 80-100 words.

Section B: Reading and Writing (45 minutes)

You will read one passage. There will be questions in German and a short translation exercise from English into German.

Section C: Writing in Registers (1 hour 15 minutes)

You will be required to answer one question for which you will write approximately 250 words. You will choose a question from the following headings; Creative Writing, Discursive Essays, Task-based Assignment

What else does the German department offer sixth form students?

The following is also offered:

  • Exchange visit to a Catholic grammar school in Bad Bentheim
  • Theatre and cinema trips
  • Sixth Form language courses in Manchester
  • Specialist teaching for Oxbridge candidates