German Revision — WJEC A-Level

    Complete WJEC A-Level German specification revision resources. Tailored syllabus coverage with topic breakdowns, quizzes, and practice questions.

    Overview

    The WJEC A-Level German course is designed to develop your language skills to an advanced level, equipping you with the ability to communicate fluently and accurately in spoken and written German. Over the two-year linear course, you will explore a wide range of social, cultural and political topics related to German-speaking countries, while also honing your analytical skills through the study of a literary text and a film. The specification builds on the foundations you gained at GCSE, pushing you towards near-native comprehension and expression, and preparing you for university study or careers in fields such as international relations, translation, business and tourism.

    The syllabus is structured around four core themes that provide a comprehensive understanding of contemporary German-speaking society: 'Being a young person in German-speaking society' (family, youth culture, education and employment), 'Understanding the German-speaking world' (media, art, festivals and traditions), 'Diversity and difference' (immigration, integration and racism), and 'The making of modern Germany' (political system, reunification and social issues). Additionally, you will conduct an independent research project for your speaking assessment and write critical essays on a prescribed literary text and film, allowing you to engage deeply with German culture and thought.

    Throughout the course, you will develop essential transferable skills such as critical analysis, argumentation and independent research. The specification is designed to be accessible yet challenging, with clear progression from AS to A-Level, though the full A-Level is a standalone qualification. WJEC provides extensive support materials, including past papers, mark schemes and online resources, to help you succeed. By the end of the course, you will not only have a high level of linguistic competence but also a nuanced appreciation of the German-speaking world and its cultural output.

    Why Choose WJEC for German?

    The speaking assessment is conducted by your own teacher in a familiar classroom setting rather than facing a visiting examiner. This can significantly reduce exam nerves, allowing you to perform more naturally and confidently. The recordings are then externally marked, ensuring fairness while maintaining a supportive testing environment.

    WJEC provides a clear, well-structured specification with distinct themes and assessment objectives, making it easier for you and your teacher to plan learning and revision. The weightings are balanced, and the prescribed texts/films list offers engaging choices that cater to diverse interests, from contemporary novels like 'Tschick' to iconic films such as 'Good Bye, Lenin!'

    As a Welsh-based awarding body, WJEC offers extensive bilingual resources (English and Welsh) and is renowned for its support to centres in Wales and England. Free access to past papers, mark schemes, exemplar materials and online teacher guidance ensures you have everything you need to prepare thoroughly, regardless of your school’s location.

    Assessment & Exam Structure

    The WJEC A-Level German qualification is assessed through three linear components, all taken at the end of the two-year course in the same exam series. Component 1: Speaking (30% of A-Level, 60 marks) is a non-exam assessment conducted by your teacher, recorded and externally marked by WJEC. It involves a discussion based on a stimulus card and a presentation on an independent research project. Component 2: Listening, Reading and Translation (50%, 100 marks) is a 2-hour 30-minute written examination comprising listening comprehension, reading tasks, and translation exercises both from and into German. Component 3: Critical and Analytical Response in Writing (20%, 40 marks) is a 2-hour written paper where you write two essays – one on a prescribed literary text and one on a film. There is no coursework; all components are externally assessed. Total marks available are 200.

    Specification Topics

    Top Exam Board Tips

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    German

    WJEC
    A-Level

    Specification: WJEC-A-Level-German

    The WJEC A-Level German specification covers 32 topics with 0 learning objectives (WJEC-A-Level-German). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

    32

    Topics

    0

    Objectives

    134

    Exam Tips

    129

    Pitfalls

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    Key Features

    • Master key concepts
    • Develop exam technique
    • Apply knowledge effectively

    About WJEC A-Level German

    The WJEC A-Level German course is designed to develop your language skills to an advanced level, equipping you with the ability to communicate fluently and accurately in spoken and written German. Over the two-year linear course, you will explore a wide range of social, cultural and political topics related to German-speaking countries, while also honing your analytical skills through the study of a literary text and a film. The specification builds on the foundations you gained at GCSE, pushing you towards near-native comprehension and expression, and preparing you for university study or careers in fields such as international relations, translation, business and tourism.

    The syllabus is structured around four core themes that provide a comprehensive understanding of contemporary German-speaking society: 'Being a young person in German-speaking society' (family, youth culture, education and employment), 'Understanding the German-speaking world' (media, art, festivals and traditions), 'Diversity and difference' (immigration, integration and racism), and 'The making of modern Germany' (political system, reunification and social issues). Additionally, you will conduct an independent research project for your speaking assessment and write critical essays on a prescribed literary text and film, allowing you to engage deeply with German culture and thought.

    Throughout the course, you will develop essential transferable skills such as critical analysis, argumentation and independent research. The specification is designed to be accessible yet challenging, with clear progression from AS to A-Level, though the full A-Level is a standalone qualification. WJEC provides extensive support materials, including past papers, mark schemes and online resources, to help you succeed. By the end of the course, you will not only have a high level of linguistic competence but also a nuanced appreciation of the German-speaking world and its cultural output.

    Assessment Structure

    The WJEC A-Level German qualification is assessed through three linear components, all taken at the end of the two-year course in the same exam series. Component 1: Speaking (30% of A-Level, 60 marks) is a non-exam assessment conducted by your teacher, recorded and externally marked by WJEC. It involves a discussion based on a stimulus card and a presentation on an independent research project. Component 2: Listening, Reading and Translation (50%, 100 marks) is a 2-hour 30-minute written examination comprising listening comprehension, reading tasks, and translation exercises both from and into German. Component 3: Critical and Analytical Response in Writing (20%, 40 marks) is a 2-hour written paper where you write two essays – one on a prescribed literary text and one on a film. There is no coursework; all components are externally assessed. Total marks available are 200.

    Why Choose WJEC?

    • The speaking assessment is conducted by your own teacher in a familiar classroom setting rather than facing a visiting examiner. This can significantly reduce exam nerves, allowing you to perform more naturally and confidently. The recordings are then externally marked, ensuring fairness while maintaining a supportive testing environment.
    • WJEC provides a clear, well-structured specification with distinct themes and assessment objectives, making it easier for you and your teacher to plan learning and revision. The weightings are balanced, and the prescribed texts/films list offers engaging choices that cater to diverse interests, from contemporary novels like 'Tschick' to iconic films such as 'Good Bye, Lenin!'
    • As a Welsh-based awarding body, WJEC offers extensive bilingual resources (English and Welsh) and is renowned for its support to centres in Wales and England. Free access to past papers, mark schemes, exemplar materials and online teacher guidance ensures you have everything you need to prepare thoroughly, regardless of your school’s location.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Assessment Objectives

    AO1
    25%

    Understand and respond to spoken language including face-to-face interaction

    AO2
    25%

    Understand and respond to written language drawn from a variety of sources

    AO3
    30%

    Manipulate the language accurately, in spoken and written forms, using a range of lexis and structure

    AO4
    20%

    Show knowledge and understanding of, and respond critically and analytically to, different aspects of the culture and society

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    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

    WJEC
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Choosing a research topic that is too descriptive rather than analytical
    • •Reading out whole sentences or complete texts during the preparation time or assessment
    • •Failing to ask the examiner at least two questions during the assessment
    • •Exceeding the 2-minute limit for the IRP presentation
    • •Using the IRP pro-forma as a script rather than an aid to memory
    • •Including notes in German on the IRP pro-forma
    • •Failure to demonstrate understanding of the main points, gist, and detail in both spoken and written tasks.
    • •Inability to handle abstract content or complex language structures in reading and listening materials.

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Ensure the IRP topic allows for analysis and personal viewpoint rather than just description
    • •Practice using communication strategies like circumlocution to maintain fluency
    • •Ensure the IRP topic is distinct from any literary works or films studied for Component 3
    • •Use the 5-minute preparation time for Task 2 to make brief notes, not full sentences
    • •Be prepared to reference information from the stimulus text at the start of the theme-based discussion
    • •Ensure the IRP pro-forma is submitted to the visiting examiner at least three weeks in advance
    • •Candidates are allowed to stop, rewind, and listen to the recording as often as they like within the time limit.
    • •Ensure familiarity with all four themes as stimulus material is drawn from these areas.

    Specification Topics

    32 topics

    Component 1: Speaking (Independent Research Project and Theme-based Discussion)

    Component 1: Speaking is a non-exam assessment (NEA) worth 30% of the A-Level qualification. It consists of two tasks: a presentation and discussion of an Independent Research Project (IRP) and a theme-based discussion based on a stimulus card.

    0 objectives6 tips6 pitfalls

    Component 2: Listening, Reading and Translation

    Component 2 is a written examination lasting 2 hours 30 minutes, accounting for 50% of the A-level qualification. It assesses listening, reading, and translation skills based on the four themes of the specification: Being a young person in German-speaking society, Understanding the German-speaking world, Diversity and difference, and The making of modern Germany: 1989 onwards.

    0 objectives5 tips4 pitfalls

    Component 3: Critical and Analytical Response in Writing (Prescribed Literary Works and Films)

    Component 3 assesses critical and analytical writing skills through a closed-book examination. Candidates must write two essays of approximately 300 words each, one based on a literary work and the second on an additional literary work or film from a prescribed list. The assessment focuses on demonstrating a detailed understanding of the works, critical appreciation of concepts and issues, and the ability to analyze form and technique in German.

    0 objectives5 tips4 pitfalls

    Grammar: Nouns

    The study of German nouns, covering their gender, number, case marking, and the specific category of weak masculine nouns.

    0 objectives3 tips4 pitfalls

    Grammar: Conjunctions

    The study of German conjunctions, covering both coordinating and subordinating types, as part of the grammatical requirements for A-Level German.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Grammar: The case system

    The case system in German, covering the functional roles of nouns and pronouns within sentences, including subject-verb agreement, object marking, and the use of the nominative case with copular verbs.

    0 objectives

    Grammar: Clause structure and word order

    The study of German clause structure and word order, covering the positioning of elements within main and subordinate clauses, as well as stylistic variations for emphasis.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Grammar: Word formation

    The study of German word formation processes, including the construction of compound nouns, derivation of nouns from verbs and adjectives, derivation of verbs from nouns and adjectives, and the use of separable and inseparable verb prefixes.

    0 objectives

    Grammar: Determiners

    The study of German determiners, including their forms and functions within the grammatical system, as required for A-Level proficiency.

    0 objectives3 tips

    Grammar: Pronouns

    The study of German pronouns, covering their various forms and functions within the grammatical system as required for A-Level proficiency.

    0 objectives3 tips4 pitfalls

    Grammar: Adjectives

    The study of German adjectives, covering their morphological forms, syntactic functions, and usage in comparative and superlative constructions, as well as their interaction with cases and prepositions.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Grammar: Adverbs and adverbials

    The study of adverbs and adverbials in German, covering their classification by function (time, place, direction, manner, degree, interrogative) and their morphological forms (comparative and superlative), as well as their role in sentence structure.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Grammar: Modal particles and discourse markers

    The study of modal particles and discourse markers as part of the grammatical system required for A-Level German, specifically focusing on their function in conveying nuance and attitude in speech and writing.

    0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

    Grammar: Verbs

    The study of German verb systems, including conjugation, tense, voice, mood, and specific syntactic constructions, as outlined in Appendix A of the WJEC Eduqas A-Level German specification.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Grammar: Tense, voice and mood

    The grammar scope for WJEC A-Level German covers the comprehensive grammatical system and structures of the language, building upon GCSE foundations. It requires active and accurate use of various tenses, voices, and moods, including complex sentence structures and specific verb forms.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Grammar: Prepositions

    The study of German prepositions, covering their classification into fixed case and dual case categories, as well as the use of prepositional adverbs (da(r)+preposition).

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Being a young person in German-speaking society

    This theme explores the lives of young people in German-speaking societies, focusing on family structures, citizenship, youth trends, personal identity, and education and employment opportunities.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Families and citizenship

    This topic explores the dynamics of family life and the responsibilities of citizenship within German-speaking societies. It covers the evolution of family structures, the changing nature of marriage and partnership, and the concept of being a good citizen.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Youth trends and personal identity

    This topic explores the trends in fashion, how young people respond to modern technology, and the nature of relationships with others and peer pressure within German-speaking societies.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Education and employment opportunities

    This topic covers the education system and student issues, as well as work and travel opportunities and the changing nature of the work scene within German-speaking societies.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Diversity and difference

    The theme of Diversity and difference explores the complexities of living in a diverse society, focusing on migration, integration, cultural identity, marginalisation, and the positive aspects of cultural enrichment and celebrating difference.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Migration and integration

    The sub-theme of Migration and integration explores the reasons for migration, the factors that facilitate or hinder integration, cultural identity and marginalisation, the causes of and solutions to marginalisation, cultural enrichment through diversity, and the life experiences of those facing discrimination.

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    Cultural identity and marginalisation

    This sub-theme explores the reasons for marginalisation within German-speaking societies and examines strategies and ways to eliminate such marginalisation, fostering an understanding of social challenges and the importance of inclusivity.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Cultural enrichment and celebrating difference

    This topic explores the positive aspects of a diverse society, the challenges faced by those who are discriminated against, and the importance of celebrating difference within German-speaking communities.

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    Discrimination and diversity

    The sub-theme 'Discrimination and diversity' explores the lived experiences of individuals facing discrimination, the societal impact of marginalisation, and the importance of cultural enrichment and celebrating difference within German-speaking societies.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Understanding the German-speaking world

    Understanding the German-speaking world is a core theme focusing on regional culture, heritage, and the role of media, art, film, and music in German-speaking countries and communities.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Regional culture and heritage in Germany, German-speaking countries and communities

    This topic explores the regional culture and heritage within Germany and other German-speaking countries and communities. It encompasses the study of festivals, customs, traditions, historical sites, museums, and galleries as part of the broader political, intellectual, and artistic culture of the German-speaking world.

    0 objectives5 tips4 pitfalls

    Media, art, film and music in the German-speaking world

    This topic explores trends in media and art, as well as the role of film and music in the lives of young people within the German-speaking world.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The making of modern Germany: 1989 onwards

    The making of modern Germany: 1989 onwards focuses on the historical, political, and social evolution of Germany following the fall of the Berlin Wall. It covers the process of reunification, the resulting social and political challenges, the impact on social cohesion, and the economic consequences of a united Germany.

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    Initial and subsequent process of reunification

    This sub-theme focuses on the historical, social, and political developments in Germany from 1989 onwards, specifically examining the process of reunification, its associated challenges, and the state of social cohesion and economic impact in contemporary Germany.

    0 objectives5 tips4 pitfalls

    Social cohesion in present-day Germany

    This topic explores the social and community challenges facing contemporary Germany, specifically within the context of the post-1989 era and the ongoing process of reunification.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    The economic impact of a united Germany

    This sub-theme explores the economic consequences of German reunification from 1989 onwards, specifically focusing on the economic advantages and challenges that emerged following the process of reunification.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

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