The School offers a rapid Spanish course taking pupils through to GCSE in two years.

The course is aimed at those who have shown an aptitude for languages so far and who are continuing with either German or French. It is not intended that pupils take Spanish in isolation. Skills and techniques learnt in another modern language will consolidate work in Spanish. The course content is very similar to that for French and German. The writing component of the GCSE course will be coursework.

Spanish will be taught in smaller sets than usual, thereby allowing more individual tuition. The course will appeal to those who enjoy languages and who are wiling to take on a challenge.

What will I be learning about for AS level?

The topics studied in the AS course are very similar to those studied at GCSE but you will be studying them in more breadth and depth. Topics range from leisure and lifestyles, (including traditions, health and tourism) to talking about the individual and society (including relationships and responsibilities, youth culture and future careers).

How does the course develop in the Upper Sixth?

For A2 you continue to study language topics such as the environment and social issues including immigration and racism. The course will provide you with the skills that are necessary to discuss a wide range of topics in Spanish. In addition to this, you will study two cultural topics (see next question).

What cultural topics will I study?

Literature and film play an important role in the Spanish culture, with some very famous playwrights and directors coming from various regions in Spain. It is important for pupils to feel confident about accessing the language and culture in as many different forms as possible. At A2 a popular short novel and a film by a well-known Spanish director are studied. This is often the first time that pupils experience film and literature in another language and can, for a lot of them, provoke a further interest in the subject.

What materials will I be using?

A wide range of authentic sources, written and recorded, central to which will be the course book, "Ánimo" are used in the course. You will also use texts taken from the internet and the Spanish language edition of "Authentik" and "ELI", as well as watching excerpts from Spanish films and TV programmes. Thorough revision and consolidation of grammar is also built into the course along with exam techniques and preparatory examination-style questions.

What about spending time in Spain?

At present, a trip to Spain is planned for 2010. The destination is still to be finalised. Work experience trips are also available, organised by an independent company. Information about these trips can be provided on request.

How will my work be assessed?

As with all other subjects studied post-GCSE, progress will be assessed throughout the course. As the classes are small, there are lots of opportunities to practise your language skills, receive help and improve. There will also be mock examinations. At the end of your AS studies, you will take two examinations: one will test listening, reading and writing skills and the other is an oral test. If you carry on to A2, you will take two examinations at the end of Upper Sixth: as at AS level, one will test listening, reading and writing skills and the other is an oral test.

Will I enjoy A Level Spanish?

• Are you interested in learning more about the Hispanic culture?
• Do you like discussing current affairs?
• Are you considering a career related to languages or working abroad?
• Are you doing well in Spanish at the moment?
• Do you want to do a subject which can be combined with many other disciplines at degree level?
• Do you relish a challenge?

If your answer to all or most of the above questions is 'yes' then Spanish could well be a good choice for AS.

Assistants

Sixth Form pupils will be expected to attend regular extra oral practice sessions in small groups with the Spanish Assistant.