Spanish – Aims of the course
Studying Spanish at Plashet allows students to become confident in understanding the spoken language and taking part in the sort of conversations you might have when you go to a Spanish speaking country or meet a Spanish speaker in this country.
Spanish is the 4th most spoken language in the world right after English, Mandarin and Hindi. It is an official language in 21 different countries with around 534 millions speakers across the globe. Throughout the course, students will find out more about the culture and traditions of both Spain and Latin America, through music, film and literature.
Within the different topics studied, students will focus on developing their listening, speaking, writing and reading skills. They will become confident in giving and justifying their own opinions whilst developing an understanding of grammar and key structures.
Exam board and Syllabus: AQA Spanish (8698)
The topics taught at KS3 and KS4 are based on ‘Myself and the world around me’. Students will learn how to talk about themselves, their family, their interests, school life and future plans etc. as well as wider issues affecting young people such as the environment and other problems society faces.
Through these topics, students will acquire a wide vocabulary and develop a solid understanding of Spanish grammar.
Students will be expected to participate actively in lessons, whether working as a whole class, in pairs, groups or by themselves. They will be encouraged to deepen their own learning using a range of reference materials and online resources.
Our KS3 course aims to provide a strong foundation for students to build on at KS4. Throughout both keys stages, students continually develop and practise the key skills. Regular internal assessments reflect actual GCSE questions and feedback from teachers guides students in how to make further progress.
How students are assessed at the end of the course
The Spanish GCSE consists of 4 exams taken at the end of Year 11:
– Listening (25%)
– Speaking (25%)
– Reading (25%)
– Writing (25%)
Home study
Home study is set each week to consolidate students’ knowledge and understanding of what has been covered in class. Home study includes vocabulary learning, grammar and writing practice and preparation for speaking tasks. Students can also access additional support and practice questions in the Spanish area of Google Classroom.
Enrichment opportunities
In the future we hope there will be opportunities to visit Spain. Students will have the chance to take part in language competitions in Central London. They will also be able to have penpals from a school in Spain. When possible cinema visits and language projects with an international Spanish company will also take place.
Learning essentials
A Spanish/English bilingual dictionary is useful for students.
