Course Overview
Entry Qualifications
In addition to the standard College entry requirements (see below), this course also normally requires students to have achieved grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language and grade 6 or above in GCSE Spanish (both higher tier). We will consider individual cases if students have a 5.
What will I study?
The syllabus builds on the skills developed at GCSE, but with much more emphasis on grammar. Equal stress is placed on listening, reading, speaking and writing, together with discovery of contemporary culture and society.
Aspects of Hispanic society:
• Modern and traditional values
• Cyberspace
• Equal rights
Artistic culture in the Hispanic world:
• Modern day idols
• Spanish regional identity
• Cultural heritage
Study of a Spanish film Multiculturalism in Hispanic society:
• Immigration
• Integration
• Racism
Aspects of political life in the Hispanic world:
• Today’s youth, tomorrow’s citizens
• Monarchies and dictatorships
• Popular movements
Study of a Spanish film
Study of a Spanish text
How will I study?
Lessons cover a variety of activities including individual and group work. Students are expected to use as much Spanish as possible in and outside the classroom, make use of the Library facilities for private study (books, DVDs, magazines, WQE Online etc.) and keep a general interest in all aspects of the language and culture. The department’s facilities include a language laboratory and computers. Students will also have an additional timetabled lesson each week with a native Spanish speaker to assist with oral and listening skills.
How is the course examined?
In common with all other new A-level specifications, the new Spanish A-level is linear with all exams being taken at the end of the second year.
Paper 1 – (50% A-Level) – Listening, Reading & Writing (Summary & Translation into both languages included)
Paper 2 – (20% A -Level) – Writing (Film & Book)
Paper 3 – (30% A-Level) – Speaking (Stimulus Card & Individual Project)
Where next?
Students will be well prepared to use Spanish for practical communication and to continue their studies in higher education. At university Spanish may be combined with another language, a host of other subjects or studied on its own.
What does the course combine well with?
Spanish combines well with any subject.
College Entry Requirements
We normally expect applicants to have achieved good GCSE passes in at least six subjects, these must:
• demonstrate the suitability for Advanced Level study
• have been achieved at Grade 4/C as a minimum
• include two at Grade 5/B as a minimum
• include English Language – a minimum grade of 4/C
Mathematics – If not achieved within the scope of the above should normally be achieved at grade 3/D. If mathematics is not achieved at grade 4/C then it will be a requirement to continue to study at the correct level until a grade 4 is achieved. Subjects with a mathematical content will require a higher grade.
