German
"Having German made me more employable - I am now working for Deutsche Bank in London and use my German on business trips." Matt
GCSE German
Pupils submit two formal speaking assessments (carried out with their teacher) and two formal written assessments, which are assessed by the exam board.
Additionally, pupils undertake reading and listening exams. The two units account for 20% of the overall mark, while speaking and writing each account for 30%.
German in the Sixth Form
German is the language of logic, music, philosophy and business. Its grammatical structure appeals to those with a mathematical mind, those with a strong sense of order.
Many pupils in the past have successfully combined German with mathematics, physics, music and philosophy but there is also another great advantage in choosing German. Germany lies at the heart of Europe and is the financial powerhouse of the European Union. It is a major player in world-wide business and knowledge of its language will give any job applicant the edge!
Germany's cultural influences stretch far back and Germany has been the birthplace of major writers, poets, artists, musicians, thinkers, scientists and innovators. Today it is a vibrant, fun-loving country, rich in modern culture and fashion, at the cutting edge of technology with a diverse landscape and fascinating cities. Studying its language will open career possibilities as well as an exciting world to discover through language exchanges. If you were to choose to study German at university either as a single subject or combined with law, business, finance, history, philosophy, music, (the list of possibilities is almost endless!), then the privilege of spending your third year in Germany either studying or working can't be rivalled for what it will bring in self-confidence, maturity and transferable skills quite apart from being a unique opportunity to experience the country.
If you enjoy German, are successful at GCSE, like travelling and have a sense of adventure as well as a keen eye to developing your future career, then German could well be the right choice for you. Past pupils have not regretted choosing German.
German A-Levels
The step up from GCSE sees pupils develop a greater understanding of German, its nuances, literature and culture. More rigorous in approach, the courses develop a deeper grasp of the language’s grammar and vocabulary.
Pupils take greater responsibility for their progress, particularly through regular extra-curricular listening and reading in the target language outside lessons.
AS-Level
Practically every key grammar issue is covered in this course. Topics covered include:
• Media – TV, advertising, communication technology
• Popular culture – cinema,
• Music
• Fashion
• Healthy living and lifestyle
• Family relationships & friendships,
• Partnerships/marriages
A2-Level
The grammar covered at AS-Level is reinforced to improve accuracy and fluency.
A2 topics include:
• Environment – pollution, energy and protecting the planet
• Multi-cultural society – immigration, racism and integration
• Contemporary social issues – wealth and poverty,
• Law and order
• Scientific and technological advance.
Additionally, pupils study a cultural topic chosen by the tutor. This could include a:
• Region/community
• Period of 20th century history
• Novelist/dramatist/poet
• Director
• Architect
• Musician
• Painter
"The six months I spent in Berlin were the best - I have made so many friends over there and I can't wait until I have finished my degree and can return to live and work there." Christina