Spoken by millions of people across the world, French is an official language in many countries and the working language of organisations such as the United Nations, the International Olympic Committee and NATO. You will learn how to use the language in a variety of different registers, developing the key skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Language acquisition aims:
- Develop international-mindedness. Establish and develop an understanding and appreciation of the differences that exist between your own and the francophone cultures.
- Enable you to communicate in the language studied in a range of contexts and for a variety of purposes. Be able to understand and communicate in social as well as academic French, whether you're at a business meeting, or meeting up with friends.
- Encourage, through the study of texts and social interaction, an awareness and appreciation of the different perspectives of people from other cultures. The Francophone world is rich in cultural diversity. Through the study of books, magazines, articles, films, radio etc., you will be able to appreciate the diverse backgrounds of French speakers.
- Develop understanding of the relationship between language and culture. Create and establish connections between French and the languages and customs you are already familiar with.
- Develop awareness of the role of French in relation to other areas of knowledge. Understand how French plays a role in the other five groups of study within the parameters of the IB Diploma Programme Curriculum.
- Provide opportunities for intellectual engagement and the development of critical- and creative-thinking skills.
- Provide a basis for further study, work and leisure using an additional language.
- Foster curiosity, creativity and a lifelong enjoyment of language learning. Learning French to expand your capacity to explore other facets of your life.
The course is taught through five themes that provide opportunities for students to communicate on matters of personal, local or national, and global interest:
- identities
- experiences
- human ingenuity
- social organization
- sharing the planet
The assessments aim to test all students’ ability to understand and use the language of study as well as key concepts through:
- learning a language by engaging with its use and meaning within a social framework.
- developing receptive, productive and interactive skills to meet the objectives of the course.
We have several French specialists in the languages department, and we offer a number of extra-curricular activies and CAS opportunities within the Languages Department.
Entry Requirements
Standard Level - GCSE French at Grade 5 and above
Higher Level - GCSE French at Grade 7 and above
For further information
Please contact Lauren Wilson: lauren.wilson@parksidecc.org.uk
French Curriculum Map