A Level - German

Course Information

What does the course involve? 

German is by far the most widely spoken native language in Europe. Learning German at A Level not only gives students precise and advanced linguistic and communication skills but also insight and in-depth understanding of an incredible culture. 

A Level German students study a range of social, artistic, cultural, historical and political topics over two years including the changing nature of the family in German society, the influence of technology, youth culture, traditions and festivals, art and architecture, the cultural importance and influence of Berlin. There is a focus on post-war German history, in particular life in the DDR under communism, the fall of the Berlin Wall and German reunification. We also consider in detail current social and political issues around immigration and integration in German-speaking societies. 

We also study in detail a piece of literature and a film which complement the course themes. 

Students will develop high-level reading, listening, writing, speaking and translation skills and in Year 13 undertake an Individual Research Project on a topic of their choice which they research and present as part of the speaking exam. 

We hope that students will be able to visit a German-speaking area as part of an exchange or a trip and we will also take part in collaborative international projects with our linked partner schools in German-speaking areas. 

How will I be assessed? 

100% examination  

Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Translation - 50% of A Level  
Paper 2: Writing - 20% of A Level  
Paper 3: Speaking - 30% of A Level 

Where can this course take me? 

Language students will find that almost any path of study or career is open to them. Learning a language at A Level not only makes you an excellent communicator but also makes the learning of new languages easier. Many students go on to study German as part of a degree, but a number also use their linguistic knowledge and confidence to start a completely new language at university. Others go onto study law, politics, business, humanities, social sciences, architecture, medicine or sciences both in the UK and abroad. Many also go onto apprenticeships or straight into employment as their language qualification gives them excellent communication skills which benefit the workplace in countless ways. 

Opportunities to study and work abroad are plentiful and there are often bursaries and funds specifically available for language students. The UK needs skilled linguists now more than ever! 

Entry Requirements

At least 6 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including GCSE English Language, and meeting the entry criteria of individual subjects (Level 2 vocational qualifications at Merit or Distinction will be treated as equivalent to one GCSE) 

Grade 6 in GCSE German. 

Additional Costs 

There are no charges to study on any of our courses. However, should students wish to take part in any visits abroad or in the UK, then payment towards trip costs will be required. 

Additional qualifications 

If you choose to study German, you will usually take it alongside two other A Levels, though it is sometimes possible for students who achieve high average GCSE grades to add German to their programme of three other subjects. 

UCAS tariff points 

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