The Individual Research Project (IRP) is a component of the A-level Speaking assessment where students identify a subject or key question of personal interest related to a Spanish-speaking country. Students conduct independent research using at least two sources (one of which must be online) and demonstrate their ability to initiate, conduct, analyse, and summarise findings. This research is then presented and discussed in the speaking exam.
The Individual Research Project (IRP) is a core component of the AQA A-Level Spanish course, designed to assess your ability to conduct independent research and present your findings in Spanish. You will choose a topic related to a Spanish-speaking country or community—such as its history, culture, society, or politics—and prepare a 2-minute individual presentation followed by a 9-10 minute discussion with your examiner. This project counts towards 30% of your A-Level grade (Paper 3: Speaking), making it essential for achieving a high mark. The IRP tests not only your language skills but also your critical thinking, research abilities, and capacity to engage in spontaneous, in-depth conversation on a complex subject.
The IRP allows you to explore an area of personal interest, from the Spanish Civil War to contemporary issues like immigration in Mexico or the role of social media in Latin American protests. By delving into authentic sources—such as news articles, documentaries, interviews, or academic texts—you will develop a nuanced understanding of your chosen topic. This process mirrors university-level research and prepares you for further study or careers requiring analytical and communication skills. Success in the IRP demonstrates your ability to synthesise information, express opinions, and defend arguments in Spanish, all while showcasing your linguistic proficiency.
The IRP fits into the wider A-Level Spanish syllabus by complementing the study of themes like social issues, political culture, and artistic heritage. It encourages you to connect language learning with real-world contexts, deepening your cultural awareness and empathy. For example, if you study the impact of tourism in Barcelona, you'll draw on vocabulary and concepts from the 'Multiculturalism' and 'Regional Identity' topics. The project also hones your ability to handle unpredictable questions, a skill that benefits you in the speaking exam and beyond. Ultimately, the IRP is your opportunity to shine by demonstrating passion, depth, and fluency in Spanish.
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