AQA A-Level French
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Explore your topics
29 topics
Aspects of French-speaking society2 topics
Course topics27 topics
- Individual research project21 objectives
- Pronouns1 objective
- Subject content24 objectives
- Social issues and trends1 objective
- Films6 objectives
- Texts10 objectives
- Verbs17 objectives
- Artistic culture in the French-speaking world13 objectives
- Aspects of political life in the French-speaking world13 objectives
- Conjunctions1 objective
- Grammar4 objectives
- Other constructions1 objective
12 of 27 shown
About this course
About AQA A-Level French
The AQA A-Level French course (7652) is designed to develop students' language skills and deepen their understanding of French-speaking cultures and societies. Over two years, learners explore themes such as social change, artistic heritage, and political engagement in France and other francophone countries. The specification integrates linguistic competencies—listening, reading, speaking, and writing—with critical analysis of authentic materials, making the learning experience both rigorous and immersive.
Central to the course are six broad themes, divided between Year 12 and Year 13. In Year 1, students examine current trends in French society (like family structures and the digital world) and artistic culture (including heritage and music). Year 2 extends into social and political issues, such as diversity, marginalisation, and criminal justice. This progression ensures learners build a solid cultural foundation before tackling more complex topics, preparing them for further study or employment.
A distinctive feature of the AQA specification is the compulsory study of one literary text and one film from set lists. This fosters literary analysis and cultural appreciation, while also honing essay-writing skills. The course emphasises independent research and the ability to present and justify opinions, with the speaking assessment including a discussion of an individual research project. Overall, it equips students with advanced communication skills and intercultural competence.
Assessment Structure
AQA A-Level French is assessed through three externally examined papers. Paper 1 (Listening, Reading and Writing) lasts 2 hours 30 minutes, carries 100 marks, and accounts for 50% of the A-level. It tests comprehension of spoken and written material, including translation into and out of French. Paper 2 (Writing) is a 2-hour examination worth 80 marks (20% of the total) where students write two critical essays—one on the set text and one on the set film. Paper 3 (Speaking) is an oral exam lasting 21–23 minutes (plus 5 minutes preparation), contributing 60 marks (30% of the A-level). It consists of a discussion of a stimulus card and a presentation/discussion on an individual research project. There is no coursework.
Why Choose AQA?
- AQA's A-Level French is valued for its logical structure and clear, familiar topic areas, making it accessible for students progressing from GCSE. The themes are modern and engaging, ranging from digital media to political engagement, which helps maintain interest over the two-year course.
- The balance of skills assessment—50% for receptive skills (Paper 1), 20% for essays, and 30% for speaking—allows students to demonstrate strengths in different areas. The speaking component’s research project is unique in giving learners autonomy to explore a personal interest, which can be a motivating factor.
- AQA provides extensive support materials, including past papers, examiner reports, and sample essays, making self-study and exam preparation straightforward. The exam board is widely used in UK state schools, so many students and teachers are familiar with its approach, potentially easing transition from GCSE.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the entry requirements for AQA A-Level French?
How is AQA A-Level French different from Edexcel?
What books and films are studied in AQA A-Level French?
Is there a coursework component in AQA A-Level French?
What support does AQA provide for self-study in French?
Assessment and exam guidance
What Gets Top Grades
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Tips and common mistakes
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Failing to provide a critical or analytical response in the speaking assessment.
- •Relying on generic descriptions rather than specific, well-supported arguments.
- •Not using a range of vocabulary and complex language structures appropriate for A-level.
- •In the speaking exam, failing to ask the teacher-examiner two questions that seek information or an opinion using a conjugated verb.
- •Failing to provide specific examples or evidence to support arguments.
- •Relying on generalisations rather than demonstrating knowledge of specific French-speaking countries.
- •In the speaking exam, failing to ask the teacher-examiner two questions containing a conjugated verb.
- •Not linking political concepts to the broader cultural and social context.
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Use authentic sources, including online media, to research these topics to ensure your arguments are current and well-informed.
- •In the speaking exam, ensure you can initiate communication and develop your ideas independently of prompts.
- •Practice using complex grammatical structures and a wide range of vocabulary to access the higher mark bands.
- •Ensure you can justify your opinions with relevant evidence and evaluate the issues critically.
- •Ensure you can use a wide range of vocabulary and complex grammatical structures, including the subjunctive and passive voice.
- •Practice using discourse markers to structure your arguments in both speech and writing.
- •In the speaking exam, ensure your questions to the examiner seek information or an opinion rather than just clarification.
- •Use authentic sources, including online media, to stay updated on current political debates in the French-speaking world.
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