German
Qualification
AS & A2
Results
A* - A grades: 100%
Awarding Body
WJEC
Course Overview
The German AS and A Level course provides an engaging and exciting opportunity for learners to build on their previous study/ knowledge of German. Through social, intellectual and cultural themes learners develop their linguistic communitive skills and cultural understanding of the German speaking countries (DACH Länder). By engaging with literature and film students can also undertake a deeper analysis of language structures and increase their cultural awareness as part of an integrated approach to language learning.
During the course, a strong focus is placed on building learners’ confidence and fluency in spoken German. Students have a valuable opportunity to participate in small group oral lessons with the native speakers which are tailored to the level and needs of individual learners.
Close liaison with the German Department of School of Modern Languages, Cardiff University, offers students a unique experience to attend bespoke taster seminars and visit Cardiff University’s German Department to participate in university language events.
Through the AS and A level German course student not only develop communicative competence in German language but also gain a range of transferable skills desirable by employers, such as critical thinking, analysing, effective communication, problem-solving and being able to apply creative solutions.
This course is assessed into a total of 5 units, 2 AS units (first year) and 3 A2 units (second year).
- AS Unit 1: Speaking
- AS Unit 2: Listening, reading, translation and critical response in writing
- A2 Unit 3: Speaking
- A2 Unit 4: Listening, reading and translation
- A2 Unit 5: Critical and analytical response in writing
The course content covers following themes:
AS level
Theme 1: Being a young person in German-speaking society
– Family structures, traditional and modern values, friendships/relationships;
– Youth trends, issues and personal identity;
– Educational and employment opportunities.
Theme 2: Understanding the German-speaking world
– Regional culture and heritage in Germany, German-speaking countries and communities;
– Literature, art, film and music in the German speaking world.
A level
Theme 3: The Making of Modern Germany: 1989 onwards
– Initial and subsequent process of reunification;
– Social cohesion in present-day Germany;
– Artistic and political movements;
– Economic impact of a united Germany.
Theme 4: Diversity and difference
– Migration and integration;
– Culture identity and marginalisation;
– Cultural enrichment and celebrating difference;
– Discrimination and diversity.
The ability to speak another language is a definite asset. A Level qualification in German is a great way to prepare for University courses. A level German is highly valued by universities and is useful for several degree courses such as: law, medical courses, business studies, marketing, export management, civil services, diplomacy, journalism, media studies, education and tourism.
A range of reports published in recent years have considered the benefits of language proficiency for trade and industry. Language skills are clearly associated with increased employment opportunities and social mobility. The ability to communicate in the language of European strongest economy will help secure a highly paid job and is the most sought-after by UK employers.
6 GCSEs A* – C, including a grade B or above in German (higher tier).