German
This course aims to develop high levels of competence in understanding, speaking and writing German and a deeper knowledge of German culture and civilisation.
German A Level
Learning German develops communication and problem solving skills. It also helps to improve your social skills, confidence and European awareness.
German makes you think. It encourages you to question your own ideas and express your point of view. It is a challenging, but highly rewarding subject.
Learning languages helps develop communication and problem-solving skills and gain independence, flexibility and organisational skills – all qualities that employers value. There are many areas of work in which languages can be a real asset.
What does the course involve?
Over the two years you will study:
- Social Issues and Trends
- Political and Artistic Culture
- Literary Texts and Film
- Grammar
The work is presented in context through newspaper and magazine articles, radio and television programmes, film, video and the internet.
You are expected to go over material covered in class every day to build your knowledge of the language and vocabulary. It is essential to maintain detailed vocabulary and grammar notes and you will write short essays on the topics you study.
There are weekly tests, comprehension and grammar exercises, translations and the preparation of texts for classroom study or oral presentation.
Resources and facilities
It is important to read widely and the Library has an excellent range of magazines and books in German. There is also an extensive collection of German films available for you to borrow.
Assessment
Qualification
A Level
Awarding Body
AQA
The German A Level Exam consists of 3 written papers:
- Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing (50% of A level).
- Paper 2: One text and one film essay (20% of A level).
- Paper 3: Oral (30% of A level).
Entry Requirements
As a minimum you will need
- Grade 6 or B in GCSE German;
- Grade 6 or B in GCSE English Language;
- Grade 6 or B in GCSE English Literature.
You will also have an interest in:
- German language and culture.
- How language works.
Trips
Students are strongly advised to attend a residential course to Augsburg; which covers 20 hours of lessons by native speakers.
Career path
German can help you gain access to top jobs in business, banking, finance, journalism, law, public relations, travel and the civil service.
There are opportunities in tourism, the media, the diplomatic service, translation and interpreting.
