Introduction
In November 2013, BBC News reported on an ‘Alarming shortage of foreign language skills in the UK’ GLOBAL FUTURES: Bilingual Plus 1
The ambition is for Wales to become a ‘Bilingual Plus 1’ nation, with the learning of an additional modern foreign language. The Education Minister said, “I want our young people to understand that a sound knowledge of another language can help them get ahead in life, in education and the competitive world”.
Many doors are open to the modern foreign linguist not only in terms of a wealth of career opportunities (international law, teaching, translating, interpreting, secretarial, international business, engineering…) but, also in terms of key skills such as problem solving, communication, ICT and working with others which are incorporated into our lessons. These skills are essential in the modern world as they are transferable to ANY career. It will ALWAYS be beneficial to employers and universities, if you have a foreign language qualification, as it shows commitment and ability to progress, even if you do not wish to use Spanish as a career or at university. Spanish is an important and enjoyable language. Spanish is the second most widely spoken language globally in terms of native speakers. In addition, it is the most spoken of the Romance languages and the third most used on the internet. It has over 400 million speakers globally.
There are many celebrities where languages have helped them progress in their careers, from the worlds of sport, journalism, film, TV, music and politics. For example, Serena Williams, Johnny Depp, Bradley Cooper, Hugh Grant, Mick Jagger, José Marinho, Marlon Brando, Huw Edwards and Boris Johnson!
The Course
At Spanish GCSE you simply need to build on what you have learned in previous years! In each lesson, opportunities are provided for you to develop your Key Skills. GCSE Spanish encourages you to enjoy and benefit from language learning and be inspired by following a broad and worthwhile course of study. Learners recognize that their linguistic knowledge, understanding and skills help them to take their place in a multilingual global society. The content that will be studied will cover the following broad contexts: Personal and Social Life, The local Community, The World of Work, The Wider World.
Assessment
The four objectives (skills of Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing) are equally weighted (25% each) and are assessed in exams at the end of Year 11 (Speaking is carried out by the class
teacher).
Progression
Students who have enjoyed the course and been successful at GCSE have the opportunity to further
their knowledge of the Spanish language. During the course, there are many opportunities for pupils to
utilize and further develop their key skills.