German A Level
Board: AQA
Syllabus: 2A Level (7692)
About the subject
The main aims are to help you communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in German through both the written and spoken word; to develop your understanding of the spoken and written forms of German; to help you develop critical insights into and contact with, the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of German-speaking countries.
In the first year, activities are based on the following topic areas: Aspects of German-speaking society (The changing state of the family, The digital world, Youth culture: fashion and trends, music, television) and Artistic culture in the German-speaking world (Festivals and traditions, Art and architecture, cultural life in Berlin, past and present). A film in German, “Das Leben der Anderen”
In the second year activities are based on the following areas: Multiculturalism in German-speaking society (Immigration,Integration,Racism) and Aspects of political life in the German speaking world (German and the European Union, Politics and youth, German re-unification and its consequences). 1 book “Der Vorleser” in German
Learning styles
Much use of German in classroom, most lessons include a variety of activities – expect the opportunity to speak in pair or group work, listening to online texts, exercises to increase vocabulary, oral presentations, explanation and revision of grammar, short written tasks and pronunciation exercises. There will be a weekly lesson in the SALC (Self Access Language Centre), and a weekly lesson with an assistant, in both of which work is based on the topic areas listed above.
Subject Combinations and Progression
Useful with all combinations, but particularly Science, History, English, Mathematics, Business Studies, Politics, Art; essential for any student considering an Erasmus programme in HE; almost all students who take a language at degree level study it as part of a package. e.g. European Studies and German, Law and German, Marketing and German, or German and French/Spanish.
Subject Modules and Assessment
A-level Paper 1: Listening,reading and Writing 2 hours and 30 minutes exam including listening and reading comprehension, translation into English and translation into German 50% of A-level
A-level Paper 2: Written exam 2 hours. One question on a set book and one question on a set film. 20% of A-level
A-level Paper 3: 21-23 minutes oral exam (including 5 minutes preparation time) 30% of A-level. Discussion of a sub-theme with the discussion based on a stimulus card.
Presentation and discussion of individual research project
Entry requirements
6 (B) in German preferred and a 4 in English