Spanish

Examination Board: AQA

Course Title:  GCSE Spanish

Why should I choose to study Spanish?

With over 400 million native speakers in over 20 countries, Spanish is one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world.  In the UK, it is also the fastest growing language to learn as a second language.  By choosing to study Spanish at GCSE level you will access many future career and study opportunities that would not be open to you without a language.  With Spain being the top tourist destination for British holiday makers (19 million British nationals travelled to Spain in 2018); Spanish is the natural choice for anyone wanting to study a language at Key Stage 4. When studying a language, not only do you study the words and grammar, you also develop an insight into the lifestyle and culture of other countries, helping you to develop skills to become a true global citizen.

What will I learn?

The GCSE course covers three distinct themes, which apply to all four GCSE Spanish examinations:

• Theme 1: Identity and Culture
• Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest
• Theme 3: Current and future study and employment

What will be expected of me?

Students of all abilities can take a language at GCSE.  All that is needed is a great deal of enthusiasm, commitment to learning, with preparation and independent learning at home.  Learning a language is a challenge – but it is worth it!

What skills will I develop?

The aim of the GCSE Spanish course is for you to successfully achieve a number of objectives in a productive and supportive environment.  These objectives are:

• To understand and use Spanish effectively for the purposes of practical communication
• To use and understand Spanish both imaginatively and creatively
• To develop an understanding of the grammar and structure of the Spanish language
• To gain insights into the culture and civilisation of Spanish speaking countries and communities
• To form a sound base of the skills, language and attitude required for further study, work and leisure

How will I be assessed?

There are four GCSE examinations for Spanish, which assess each of the key language skills.  All four examinations take place towards the end of Year 11. 

• Listening examination (25%)
• Reading examination (25%) - including translation from Spanish to English
• Speaking assessment (25%) - role play, photo card and general conversation
• Writing assessment (25%) - structured writing task, open-ended writing task and translation from English to Spanish

Where will this qualification lead me?  

Do you aspire to have a career in business, travel and tourism, the media, journalism, MI5, sales and marketing, customer support, education or translating and interpreting?  The knowledge of a foreign language would be an advantage for furthering your career in any field.