Spanish

A-level Course

Whereas the GCSE allows pupils to develop the basic skills needed to express themselves about a  limited range of topics, A-level provides the opportunity for pupils to express themselves in as much detail as possible about a wide range of subjects. The cultural focus of the latter stages of the A-level offers pupils insight into complex areas of Spanish and Latin American life. The opinions that they form, whilst guided, are encouraged to be their own and are exhibited in animated dialogues and thoroughly reasoned essays. Study of Spanish complements many other subjects at both A-level and at university because of the broad range of skills demonstrated by competent linguists. As well as going on to language degrees, pupils have combined Spanish with International Relations, History, Politics and even Mathematics.

Lower 6th (Year 12)

At AS-level we follow the AQA course. In the Lower 6th students learn about a variety of topics realting to the modern world. These are, Media, Culture, Healhty Living and Relationships. They work towards an oral examination (worth 30% of the course) covering  these topics. Lessons are conducted largely in the target language and each week students meet with the Spanish assistant to develop their oral skills in small groups so that their spoken Spanish improves greatly during the course. Students are also prepared thoroughly for formal examinations in Reading, Writing and Listening at the end of the year. These cover the same topics as the oral examination and form 70% of the examination.

Upper 6th (Year 13)

At A2-level students continue to develop their knowledge of Spanish language and culture and enjoy debating a wider range of issues in preparation for their oral examination. They will also study two cultural topics linked to Spanish-speaking countries which encourage independent research and thought. Currently these topics are A Region of Spain (including its history, economy, politics and geography) and the film El Calentito, which reflects on the cultural outpouring and social revolution after the death of Franco.The final examinations in writing and speaking are based on these topics. The reading and listening examinations draw on the core part of the course. The oral examination forms 30% of the course, whilst the other skills combined represent 70%.

Trips

Sixth formers are offered the chance to stay with host families in Salamanca for a week of immersion study. All our trips aim to broaden cultural and linguistic horizons and in the 5th and 6th forms they are an excellent way to prepare for examinations in a safe and fun environment.