Spanish
Introduction to Spanish
Two of the most persistent myths about languages are that the British do not need to learn foreign languages since everyone else speaks English, and that the only jobs for people with languages are teaching and translating. Both statements are false! The reality is that over 60% of British trade is with non-English-speaking countries and British businesses lose billions of pounds each year due to poor language skills. Skilled linguists have never been so much in demand! Spanish has over 530 million native speakers and is the 4th most widely spoken language in the world. In Europe, Spain is one of the UK’s major economic partners. Communication, negotiation and travel are all greatly facilitated by the ability to speak Spanish. The acquisition of Spanish will therefore be a considerable asset for 21st century adults, especially in the fields of business, marketing, tourism, law and the service industries to name but a few.
Spanish at KS3
This is a three-year key stage which has no national assessment at its end. Student progress is monitored over this period to ensure that they achieve or exceed the expected of progress each year. 4 topics are studied in year 7 and 8 and after building a solid base of topic vocabulary, grammar and skills students are able to specialise in one of the 2 languages offered. In year 9 Spanish students will study 6 topics including relationships, education and future plans, free time and leisure, as well as holidays.
Spanish at KS4
The 2-year GCSE course will extend students’ knowledge of a range of vocabulary and grammatical concepts in Spanish, to allow them to use their language competently and express their own ideas and opinions. Throughout the GCSE, students will study cultural elements associated with Hispanic countries.
The course content is broken down into 3 themes:
- Identity and Culture
- Local, national, international and global areas of interest
- Current and Future Study and Employment.
As part of the GCSE course students will have the opportunity to develop their speaking skills when working with a Modern Language Assistant from a Spanish speaking country. Students will be directed to work with the MLA in small groups/pairs to perfect their speaking and writing.
To give our GCSE students the best opportunity to practise their skills in context, we hope to offer an overseas trip to Spain after many successful years running a Spanish exchange
