Do you want to know more about the country and the people where your chosen language is spoken?
Are you prepared to “have a go” at communicating in the language?
Do you have an interest in how a language works?
Are you prepared to make good use of resources available in the Language Centre, outside of lessons?

If you are interested in languages and communication, and enjoy learning about other cultures and ways of life, then a modern language course could be suitable for you. Similarly, if you are interested in the business world, in travel or tourism, in literature, or in journalism and the media, this course is appropriate. A language can be combined with most other subjects at Higher Education level. The Nuffield Report once again highlighted the frustration of employers in all fields because of the lack of suitably qualified linguists. An economics professor is quoted as saying that any graduate with a combined economics and language degree would be earning more than him within 5 years in employment.

What is the course content?

You will learn through a variety of exercises to read, listen to and understand texts coming from a variety of media sources and to present information, opinions and arguments either orally or on paper on the following subjects:

AS Level (Year 1)
Daily Life
Leisure & Entertainment
Education & Training
Communication & Media

A Level (Year 2)
Society
The Environment
Science & Technology
Culture

Throughout the 2 years you will spend at least one lesson a week in the Language Centre as a class and will be expected to work in there independently. You will have a weekly 30 minutes' conversation session with a foreign language assistant.

How will your work be assessed?

AS Level (Year 1) OCR board

A speaking examination lasting 15 minutes and involving a 5 minute role-play, and a discussion.

A listening, reading and writing exam including a range of tests (true / false, gap-fill plus a writing task in the target language and in English).

A Level (Year 2) OCR board

A speaking and reading exam of 15 minutes.

A listening, reading and writing exam including a range of different tests some non verbal / some involving responding in target language.

What are the entry requirements?

The general entry requirements for studying at Advanced level apply, and must include a minimum of grade B in the relevant GCSE language examination.

Other information

In the course of the 2 years, you will be offered the possibility of a week's work experience in the relevant country.

Throughout the course you will be offered the opportunity of attending various conferences.

10/09