German A-Level
EDEXCEL 8190 (AS) 9190 (A2)
Key principles
The assessment specification at GCE has changed for all subject areas and students will have the first examination at AS Level in 2009 and at A2 in 2010. We are using the Edexcel Examination Board to assess Modern Foreign Languages, as it offers students a clear focus and control of assessment. The new specification will have a reduced number of units, with revised topic areas and grammar lists, seeking to provide a more logical progression from GCSE to AS Level. The A2 specification will in turn provide a realistic progression from AS and will reward advanced research and reading skills. The specification also acknowledges the importance of the knowledge and understanding of the target language culture in addition to literary study.
Assessment overview
| Tasks | % of AS/A2 | % of Advanced GCE | Time | ||
| Unit 1 | Spoken expression and response to target language | Responding to set questions Discussion |
30% of AS | 15% | 8-10 minutes |
| Unit 2 | Understanding and written response in target language | Listening and understanding Reading and understanding Writing task |
70% of AS | 35% | 2½ hours |
| Unit 3 | Understanding and spoken response in target language | 5 minutes speaking on chosen issue, adopting a stance and justifying opinions Discussion |
35% of A2 | 17.5% | 11-13 minutes |
| Unit 4 | Research, understanding and written response in target language | Translation into target language Target language essay Research-based essay |
65% of A2 | 32.5% | 2½ hours |
General topic areas at AS:
- youth culture and concerns
- lifestyle, health and fitness
- the world around us
- education and employment
In addition to these topic areas, A2 students will study:
- Customs, traditions, beliefs and religions
- National and international events
- Literature and the arts
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