Spanish

Subject: Spanish

Qualification Level: A level

Qualification Duration: 2 years

Exam Board: AQA

Overview:

The A-level Spanish course is a comprehensive programme designed to develop students' proficiency in the Spanish language and provide them with a deeper understanding of the culture, society, and issues of the Spanish-speaking world. The course covers a wide range of skills and topics, including contemporary challenges from a Spanish-speaking perspective, such as immigration, environment, and social inequalities. It delves into the culture, history, and society of Spanish-speaking countries, helping students gain a broad perspective on the Spanish-speaking world. Emphasis is placed on students' ability to engage in debates, discussions, and extended essays in Spanish.

Overall, the AQA A-level Spanish course offers a well-rounded and in-depth study of the Spanish language, culture, and society, preparing students for higher education or future career opportunities in Spanish-speaking regions or fields related to Spanish language and culture.

Year 1 content:

• Aspects of Hispanic Society – traditional and modern values; changes in family life; the influence of religion; cyberspace and new technology; equal rights and changing attitudes in society.
• Artistic Culture in the Hispanic World – the influence of celebrities and role models; regional identity, traditions and languages in Spain; cultural heritage, including art, architecture and music.
• Multiculturalism in Hispanic Society – immigration and its impact; integration and coexistence; racism and discrimination in Spain and the Hispanic world.
• Aspects of Political Life – young people and political engagement; youth unemployment and aspirations; monarchies and dictatorships in Spain and Latin America.
• Film and Literature – introduction to the study of a Spanish-language film and literary text; characters, themes, plot and social context; development of analytical and essay-writing skills.

Year 2 content:

• Multiculturalism and Integration – historical and contemporary perspectives on coexistence, immigration and the integration of different social groups in Spain.
• Political and Social Issues – social movements, trade unions and political protest in Spain and Latin America; the role and influence of religion; contemporary social and political issues across the Hispanic world.
• Artistic and Cultural Issues – the social impact of important artistic movements and styles in the Spanish-speaking world and their historical and cultural context.
• Film and Literature – in-depth study of the prescribed film and literary text; analysis of characters, themes, plot and social context; development of sophisticated essay-writing skills.
• Individual Research Project – independent research into an aspect of a Spanish-speaking country or community in preparation for the A-level speaking examination.
• Exam Preparation – consolidation of advanced grammar and vocabulary; development of listening, reading, translation, speaking and writing skills; revision and past-paper practice.

Trips and other costs:

Textbooks and potential trips

Career and further study:

A-level Spanish develops much more than language skills. Students build confidence in communication, research, critical thinking and problem-solving, while developing an understanding of different cultures and perspectives. The Individual Research Project also provides valuable preparation for independent study at university. Language skills are highly valued by employers and can open doors to a wide range of careers in the UK and internationally.

Possible career paths include:

• International business and marketing
• Travel, tourism and aviation
• Journalism and media
• Diplomatic and Foreign Service
• Government and Civil Service
• Translation and interpreting
• Law and legal services
• International development
• Healthcare
• Education and teaching