Queen Elizabeth's Grammar
SchoolLanguages
Students are taught French and German in Year 7 and 8.
In Year 9 students select two languages from French, German and Spanish to study. All students then select at least one language to continue for GCSE, and it is also an option to continue learning a language at A Level – meet the teachers.
We run trips to France, Germany and Spain at various points, which are highly enjoyable and immersive. There is a stock of films in French, German and Spanish which are available in the school library, and we encourage all students to engage with their languages through a variety of resources, including podcasts, YouTube and apps, such as Memrise.
French
There is a strong focus on grammar, which builds confidence and allows students to speak and write high-quality French. We cover the key examination skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening, but also encourage students to focus on cultural aspects of francophone countries. Sixth Form students work as mentors for younger students in the school where required, and a lunchtime support session is run by staff. A Level students take the opportunity to undertake more extensive projects as part of the course, including writing and producing a film and running an election campaign. Other resources include France24, Linguee.
German
By the end of Year 9 pupils will know all major grammatical concepts (present, past, future) as well as different types of sentence building via linking words, inversion, and prepositions. At GCSE students cover identity and culture, local, national, international and global areas of interest and current and future study and employment. At A Level, broad themes of social issues, trends and political, artistic and intellectual culture are covered including the study of a film or a literary work. Sixth Form students work as mentors for younger students. Find out facts about Germany and an online dictionary.
Spanish
Building on the language skills learned in French and German in Years 7 and 8, Spanish is offered first to Year 9 students and is available as an option at GCSE and A Level students. Older students are available to mentor younger students and lead Year 8-9 Spanish clubs.
