Theme 1 (AS) – Being a Young Person in French-Speaking Society

Theme 1 of the WJEC A-Level French specification, 'Being a Young Person in French-Speaking Society', explores the realities of youth in contemporary France and the Francophone world. It covers key aspects such as family structures, education, employment, and social issues like integration and discrimination. This theme is crucial because it allows students to engage with authentic cultural contexts, moving beyond stereotypes to understand the diverse experiences of young people in French-speaking societies. By examining topics like the changing nature of family life, the pressures of the education system, and the challenges of finding work, students develop a nuanced appreciation of how young people navigate their identities and roles in a globalised world.

This theme is divided into two main sub-themes: 'La famille en voie de changement' (The changing family) and 'Les études et le monde du travail' (Studies and the world of work). In the first sub-theme, students analyse shifts in family structures, including the rise of single-parent families, same-sex parenting, and the impact of secularisation on family life. The second sub-theme focuses on the education system (from maternelle to university), the baccalauréat, and the challenges of youth unemployment and precarious work. Understanding these topics is essential for developing critical thinking about social policies, cultural values, and the lived experiences of young people. This theme also provides a foundation for more advanced study in A2, where students explore broader societal issues such as immigration and political engagement.

Mastering this theme requires students to move beyond descriptive knowledge to analytical and evaluative skills. For example, when discussing the French education system, students should be able to compare it with the UK system, evaluate its strengths and weaknesses, and discuss proposed reforms. Similarly, when examining family life, students should consider how factors like socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and geography shape different experiences. This theme also integrates key grammar points, such as the subjunctive for expressing opinions and the conditional for hypothesising, which are essential for achieving high marks in writing and speaking assessments. By engaging with authentic materials like news articles, film extracts, and statistical data, students develop the linguistic and cultural competence needed for exam success and real-world communication.