A Level Options: Spanish

Entry Requirements

All native Spanish-speaking students at Runnymede can take this subject if they have the interest and desire to do so. However a mature and committed approach towards the study of this subject is essential. Non-native speakers of the language should have studied Spanish at GCSE.

Why study this subject?

Spanish is spoken by 599 million people (7.5% of the world population) and it is the second most spoken mother tongue in the world. More than 23 million people are currently learning Spanish as a Foreign Language around the globe. All universities in Spain and the US accept Spanish A Level as well as most universities in the UK. The AQA level course focuses on current issues and the in depth reading of two literary works. It is a very attractive course that students enjoy greatly for its cultural richness and variety of topics.

What will I study and learn?

Year 12:

Theme 1: Aspects of the Hispanic Society

  • Modern and traditional values
  • Cyberspace
  • Equal rights

Theme 2: Artistic culture in the Hispanic world

  • Modern day idols
  • Spanish regional identity
  • Cultural Heritage

Literature

  • “Las bicicletas son para el verano” by Fernando Fernán Gómez

Translation

Year 13:

Theme 3: Multiculturalism in Hispanic societies

  • Immigration
  • Racism
  • Integration

Theme 4: Aspects of political life in the Hispanic World

  • Today’s youth, tomorrow’s citizens
  • Monarchies, republics and dictatorships
  • Popular Movements

Literature

  • “La casa de Bernarda Alba” by Federico García Lorca

Vocabulary

Grammar

Verbs

Translation

How will I be assessed?

The A Level exam consists of three papers:

Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Writing
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes, 50% of the exam
Paper 2: Writing
Duration: 2 hours, 20% of the exam
Paper 3: Speaking
Duration: 21-23 minutes (including 5 minutes supervised preparation time), 30% of the exam

Future opportunities (degrees and careers)

Spanish can be an excellent basis for any degree, from Modern Foreign Languages to Translation and Interpreting, Literature, Journalism, Law, Politics, Economics, History, Tourism or PPE.

Speaking a language as a native speaker has become an essential tool in the professional world. More and more companies require employees who can speak at least two languages; therefore being bilingual in English and Spanish will increase your employability potential. According to the Cervantes Institute Spanish will soon surpass French to become the second language of choice in the UK.