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Group 2 - Language Acquisition

The acquisition and use of language in a range of contexts and for different purposes while also promoting an understanding of another culture through the study of its language. Ab Initio courses are for beginners with very little or no previous experience of the chosen language   
Why study languages?  
  • To achieve fluency in a language other than my native English.  
  • To improve job prospects in an increasingly global marketplace.  
  • To develop transferable skills including decision making, communication, memory and problem solving under pressure.  
  • To take part in enrichment activities (trips, exchanges, etc.) that improve language learning and cultural appreciation.  
  • To develop analytical skills by deciphering patterns and rules and applying them to new contexts.  
  • To apply knowledge to real world situations.  

Which language should I choose?

The following languages are available to study as part of your programme of study:

  • French (SL or HL)
  • Latin (SL or HL)
  • Spanish (SL or HL)
  • Japanese ab initio (SL)
  • Spanish ab initio (SL)
  • Latin (HL or SL) 
Continue with the language you studied at GCSE if:   Explore an ab initio course if:  
  • I want to further my knowledge and become more fluent in the language(s) I have studied at GCSE.  
  • I would prefer an advanced language qualification rather than an ab initio qualification.  
  • I am considering studying languages at university as part/all of my degree.  
  • I want to add a new language to my CV in addition to my GCSE(s).  
  • I want a fresh start in language learning and am willing to start from scratch.   
  • I would like to learn about new cultures I haven’t yet explored.   
  • I want to build on my Spanish from Years 7-9.  

 

Should I take languages at Higher Level?

  • The extra lessons would support greater retention of content between lessons.  
  • The Higher-Level qualification enables me to study literature in the original language or more literature in the case of Latin.  
  • Studying at Higher Level gives me more time to consolidate language skills.  
  • Knowing another language to the highest possible level would help for my degree or could give my university application an advantage.  
  • Higher Level is usually required to study at university.  

Should I take two languages? Yes!

  • If you have a GCSE in two languages (from French, Latin and Spanish) you can optimise your ability to make use of them in the future by studying both to a more advanced level.  
  • What you learn in one language (including content, concepts and skills) will transfer to another making you better at both languages.  
  • Universities recognise the added value of learning two languages.  
  • Two languages provide you with more opportunities for employment.  
  • It improves the functionality of your brain, including memory, perception and decision-making processes and it also helps with multi-tasking.  
  • Continue with your current GCSE language and pick up an ab initio (timetable permitting).   

 

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