Espagnol

Entry Requirements: A minimum grade 6 in GCSE Spanish | Exam Board: Edexcel

Why Study Spanish?

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world making it an appealing and prevalent choice for A level study. The rich, diverse and fascinating cultures of the Hispanic world will leave you with a curiosity to experience the vast number of Spanish speaking countries for yourself. Spain itself is the second most visited country in the world! From Spain to Latin America you will discover a gateway to incredible landscapes, diverse arts, unique traditions and customs, wonderful culinary delights and rich histories through the study of this beautiful language. Furthermore, in today’s global economy studying Spanish can open a wide range of career opportunities for you. The discipline of studying a language is extremely well regarded by both employers and universities. They know that a linguist is likely to have strong communication skills and that this will be an asset to them.

Did you know Spanish...

Is the official language of 21 countries over 4 continents?
Is spoken by approximately 543 million speakers worldwide?
Is one of the official languages in international conferences, the United Nations and the European Union?
Offers the key to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of both Spain and Latin America?
Is the language of the second most popular holiday destination globally, Spain?

Le cours

Students will foster a range of transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, research skills and creativity, focusing on how Spanish-speaking society has been shaped, socially and culturally, and how it continues to change. During the first year, students will study aspects of the social context, together with aspects of the artistic life of Spanish-speaking countries focusing on music and cinema.

In the second year further aspects of the social background are covered, focusing on issues such as life for those on the margins of Spanish-speaking society, as well as looking at the positive influences that diversity brings. Students will also study aspects of the political landscape in a Spanish-speaking country, looking at immigration from the political perspective and at the way in which political power is expressed through action such as strikes and demonstrations.

Students will have the opportunity to study both a film and a novel linked to the Spanish and South American culture. The critically acclaimed Spanish drama film Volver alongside the renowned Colombian novel Crónica de una muerte anunciada, will broaden the students’ knowledge of Hispanic culture and society. They will be assessed in the four skills of speaking, writing, listening and reading.

Opportunités

Language learning at JCG is not confined to the classroom. If possible, you will have the opportunity to take part in a study visit to Spain and organise your own work experience in Spain in Year 13. Each year, JCG linguists go on to study university courses ranging from languages to law, politics to medicine. Studying a language at A level provides excellent preparation for a wide range of careers including journalism, law, finance and teaching. A level Spanish will broaden your horizons and make you more employable.