Key Stage 4 - German
Aims of the Course
The GCSE in German offered at KSHS is in line with the OCR qualification. The specification gives candidates the opportunity to:
- derive enjoyment and benefit from language learning by following a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study,
- develop understanding of the language in a variety of contexts,
- develop knowledge of the language and language learning skills,
- develop the ability to communicate effectively in the language,
- develop awareness and understanding of countries and communities where the language is spoken,
- recognise that their linguistic knowledge, understanding and skills help them to take their place in a multilingual global society and also provide them with a suitable basis for further study and practical use of the language.
Course content / structure
Students are allocated 5 hours per fortnight of timetable time in Years 10 and 11 for their German studies. The course content is divided into 5 modules as follows, with modules 1-3 studied in Year 10 and modules 4-5 studied in Year 11.
Module 1 – Home and local area
- Life in the home; friends and relationships.
- Local area, facilities and getting around.
Module 2 – Health and sport
- Sport, outdoor pursuits and healthy lifestyle.
- Food and drink as aspects of culture and health.
Module 3 – Leisure and entertainment (includes online)
- Socialising, special occasions and festivals.
- TV, films and music.
Module 4 – Travel and the wider world
- Holidays and exchanges.
- Environmental, cultural and social issues.
Module 5 – Education and work
- School life in the UK and in the target language country or community.
- Work experience, future study and jobs, working abroad.
Unit 1: Listening (German A711) (20% of overall grade)
Candidates listen for, identify and note main points and extract some detail from spoken texts of increasing length, speed and complexity and demonstrate their understanding with a variety of non-verbal responses and some short answers (of one or two words) in English.
Unit 2: Speaking (German A712) (30% of overall grade)
Candidates complete two controlled assessment tasks for two different purposes. They interact with other speakers and present ideas and information. Candidates will be required to respond to some unexpected questions as part of their interaction with other speakers.
Unit 3: Reading (German A713) (20% of overall grade)
Candidates read, identify and note main points and extract some detail from written texts of increasing length and complexity and demonstrate their understanding with a variety of non-verbal responses (in English and the target language) and short answers (of one or two words) in English.
Unit 4: Writing (German A714) (30% of overall grade)
Candidates communicate on two different subjects for two different purposes. They convey information and facts, and express and justify points of view.