Subject: German
Syllabus Number: AQA 8668
Teacher who leads the subject: Mrs D Williams
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Why study German?
Whatever plans you may have for the future, knowledge of German will increase your options. German is an excellent language to learn in preparation for professional careers in business, law, engineering, government and international affairs, economics, finance and education, as well as for academic careers in such fields as history, religion, literature, art, philosophy and politics. When you learn German, you acquire a range of skills which can improve the quality of both your work and private life.
Learning German will help you to:
- broaden your horizons – culturally and personally
- present yourself well in front of others
- make the most of your travels
- communicate effectively with business partners
- contribute positively to a company with global connections
- have a successful career in hospitality and tourism
- work effectively and collaboratively in a scientific field with scientists from overseas
- make your mark in Media & Communications (German is the 2nd language of the internet)
- stand out from the crowd (particularly for university or job applications)
- improve your understanding of your first language
Germany has one of the strongest economies in Europe and offers many opportunities for jobs. A working knowledge of German is highly valued by many employers, not only those who are based in Germany but by businesses wishing to be in contact with potential German business partners. Knowing German therefore increases your chances for success!
In the tourism and hospitality industry, tourists from German-speaking countries travel far and wide and are the world’s biggest spenders when on holiday! They really appreciate being looked after by German-speaking staff and tour guides.
If you wish to study or work in Germany, Germany awards a generous number of scholarships and other financial support. Unlike in the UK, there are no charges for students to attend university. Working holiday visas are available for young foreigners, and special visas are offered to skilled workers and professionals.
Studying a language develops your skills and you as a person. Studying German means you open up a new range of experiences and a new world to yourself.
Outline of syllabus content
Over the course of Year 10 and Year 11 students study the following broad topic areas or themes:
Identity and culture
- Me, my family and friends
- Technology in everyday life
- Free-time activities
- Customs and festivals in German-speaking countries/communities
Local, national, international and global areas of interest
- Home, town, neighbourhood and region
- Social issues
- Global issues
- Travel and tourism
Current and future study and employment
- My studies
- Life at school/college
- Education post-16
- Jobs, career choices and ambitions
Students develop their skills in speaking, writing, reading and listening as well as their vocabulary and knowledge of German grammar.
There are opportunities to discover German and Germany through the culture and students have access to a wide range of paper and electronic resources to help them expand their vocabulary and to follow their own as well as class interests.
Assessment
Students are assessed by terminal examinations in the skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing.
Each exam is worth 25% of the total mark.
There are two tiers of assessment: Foundation and Higher.
Translation of short passages of German into English or English into German feature in the reading and writing exams.
Additional information is available on the Curriculum Overview section of the website - click here