German is one of the key languages in Europe, of the economic powerhouses and is a language rich in culture and tradition, with many similarities to English. Pupils will learn the transferable skills of communication and presentation, and will encounter language that will be of practical use in future. They will develop strategies and approaches for demonstrating proficiency in listening, reading, writing and speaking a foreign language, preparing them for life in a global context.
I would encourage other students to study German at GCSE level. It definitely goes up a level in difficulty when you reach it GCSE but as long as you are willing to put the effort in it is a very rewarding and sometimes humorous language to be able to speak. It can also be very helpful if you want to learn other germanic languages such as Swedish as you'll find that they sound very similar. Ruby Y10
It was an incredibly tough call to make when deciding to take German or Spanish because German it is both a fun and tricky language to learn, but once you have it will be incredibly rewarding. The lessons are really engaging and the teachers are very supportive and contribute to this fun atmosphere. And you can tell the amount of effort and care they put into creating each lesson. Maisie Y10
| Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 7 |
|
Family, Pets, Leisure and School |
Holidays and Tourism |
| Year 8 | Holidays and Travel TV and Film |
Food and Drink Daily Routine |
Fashion Going Out |
| Year 9 | School and Education |
Free Time and Leisure | Friendships and Relationships Role-Models |
GCSE German in Years 10 & 11
Course Leader: Mr A Blagona & Mr L Read
Contact Email: ablagona@tgschool.net lread@tgschool.net
Examination Board: Edexcel
Assessment: 100% exam (25% listening, 25% speaking, 25% reading and 25% writing)
Why should I study this subject at Key Stage 4?
Ludwig Wittgenstein, one of the greatest thinkers of the modern world, once said "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world". Learning any new language doesn't just offer you a new skill - it offers you an insight into a culture, a people, their history and their whole world. It really is a key to a door that, very often, you didn't realise existed. If you want a more concrete reason to learn a new language, how about the fact that German is the second most used scientific language? Or maybe that German is the most widely spoken mother language in the European Union, and around 7.5 million people in 42 countries worldwide belong to a German-speaking minority? If you want to earn money, then German has been ranked 3rd for economic value in the world, and the highest paid foreign language for British people to learn. In terms of your lessons at KS4, be prepared not to just use a textbook, but to use online, interactive resources like Quizlet, watch film and TV excerpts, listen to German-language music, and maybe even get on a plane and visit Berlin or a Christmas market!
What does the course involve?
GCSE German helps you explore a wide range of topics, from celebrations and festivals, through getting by as a tourist in Germany to international campaigns and events. You will learn about German culture through a range of interesting topics which will add to your understanding of the language and country.
Differences from Year 9
You already know a lot of the vocabulary and grammar you’ll need for GCSE: you know how to talk about yourself, your family and friends, your hobbies, where you live and school. You‘ll build on this knowledge during your GCSE course, and move onto new topics.
Skills developed
The ability to listen to, understand and speak German in a range of contexts and for a variety of purposes; develop language learning and communication skills which can be applied broadly; develop an interest in and a knowledge of the culture of countries and communities where German is spoken. You will also practise translation skills, which will prepare you for a smooth transition into AS and A Level.
What can I do after I’ve completed the course?
People with language skills and knowledge usually have an advantage over people without them. They stand out as talented and successful people, with broad and exciting horizons. Taking GCSE German means you will:
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Add an extra dimension to your personal skills profile which will impress anyone who reads your CV.
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Be in a stronger position to get a job in companies with international links or improve employability if you would like to work abroad. Be able to work or study in a German-speaking country in later life.
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Be able to study AS and A level German courses to further your knowledge of the language and culture. Find it easier to learn other languages later if you want to.
Studying German at Sixth Form
Students can continue studying german as an A Level here at Thomas Gainsborough School.
