Welcome to the Modern Languages Department
The study of a modern language has a unique contribution to make to the development of cultural awareness.
- S1 to S4 pupils will receive 3 periods of French/Italian per week
- Higher pupils will receive 6 periods a week
The BGE introduces learners to French and Italian through simple, practical language use. Pupils develop confidence in the skills of listening, talking, reading, and writing in familiar contexts such as school, free time, home area, self, food and film & TV. Learning focuses on building vocabulary, basic grammar, pronunciation and cultural awareness, with a strong emphasis on communication. Pupils study each language on a rotational basis and choose the language they wish to continue to study at the end of S2.
National 3 develops basic language skills, developing confidence in listening, reading, talking and writing. Learners understand and use straightforward spoken and written language, focusing on simple information and familiar topics. The course is internally assessed, covering Understanding Language and Using Language Units.
National 4 builds on basic language skills, developing greater confidence in the skills of listening, reading, talking and writing. Learners practice the skills using language linked to society, learning, employability and culture. The course is internally assessed, covering Understanding Language and Using Language Units as well as an Added Value Unit.
National 5 develops confident and more independent use of French or Italian. Learners understand, analyse and respond to more detailed spoken and written texts. The course strengthens grammar, accuracy and a range of expression across the contexts of society, learning, employability and culture. Assessment includes a writing assignment, an oral performance and an external exam.
Higher French or Italian aims to develop fluency, accuracy, and cultural understanding. Learners engage with complex texts, reflect, express opinions, develop ideas and communicate with confidence in a range of contexts. Assessment includes writing assignment, an oral performance and an external exam.
The Modern Languages for Life and Work Award at Level 3 focuses on practical language skills for real-life, social and workplace situations. Learners use French or Italian to communicate basic information, interact with others and understand simple texts relevant to everyday life and employment. Emphasis is on confidence, employability, and transferable communication skills. The course is internally assessed. The Building Employability Skills can be done as a stand-alone unit and is completed in English.
Modern Languages for Life and Work at Level 6 will develop knowledge and skills in areas such as society, culture and employability. This course focuses on practical language skills for real-life, social and workplace situations. Pupils who study a Higher language have the opportunity to achieve these units alongside the Higher.
