French
Head of Department
Ms C Byrne (Head of MFL)
Ms L Grandjean (Head of French)
Qualification
A Level
Exam Board
Edexcel
Entry Requirements
6 in English
6 in French
Why study this course
Studying French at A Level, not only improves your language skills, but it provides you with insights into France’s history and culture. More than 300 million people speak French on the five continents. French is the second most widely learned foreign language after English, and the fifth most widely spoken language in the world.
France operates the biggest international network of cultural institutes, which run French-language courses for close to a million learners. They also offer a variety of cultural programs in many domains.
The ability to speak French and English is an advantage on the international job market. A knowledge of French opens the doors of French companies in France and other French-speaking parts of the world. As one of the world’s largest economies and a leading destination for foreign investment, France is a key economic partner.
French is both a working language and an official language of the United Nations, the European Union, UNESCO, NATO, the International Olympic Committee, the International Red Cross and international courts.
By studying other cultures, students gain a better understanding of the world around them and are able to understand and discuss many current topics. They also develop empathy, intellectual curiosity and oracy skills.
Course Overview
Theme 1: Changes in French speaking society
Module 1: Families and changing structures, Adoption, Marriage equality
Module 2: Education and differences between school systems across the French speaking world
Module 3: World of work, Laws and workers’ rights
Theme 2: Artistic culture in French speaking countries
Module 4: Musical landscape
Module 5: Media and freedom of expression
Module 6: Festivals and traditions
Theme 3: Immigration and multicultural societies
Module 7: Positive impact of immigration
Module 8: Immigration challenges and integration
Module 9: Right-wing politics
Theme 4: Occupied France and the Resistance movement
Module 10: Occupied France
Module 11: the Vichy Regime
Module 12: The Resistance movement
Literature:
Study of a French novel
Film:
Study of a French film
Independent Research Project:
Topic related to an aspect of French (or Francophone) culture – chosen by the student
Speaking, Listening, Reading and Translation practice on Themes 1 to 4
Essay practice on Literature and Film.
Exam specification
Enrichment
- Year 12 students complete a one-week work placement in France over Easter. They stay with local families and gain incredible insight about the culture, language and work environment.
- Trips to museums presenting French works in London.
- Deliver languages sessions to primary school children.
- Increase their understanding of the different French speaking cultures across the globe.
Future Pathways
The subject is well regarded by universities, especially Russel Group universities.
Possible careers:
- Interpreter
- MFL teacher
- Translator
- Journalist
- Detective
- Diplomatic Service Office
- International aid/ development worker
- Marketing executive
- Tourism industry
- Medical writer