GCSEs in French, German and Spanish

Exploring and using another language offers learners a different way of looking at and understanding the world around them.

Studying an international language - including GCSE French, GCSE German and GCSE Spanish - helps learners to understand how languages work, to see the connections between them and to strengthen their communication skills across languages and contexts.

These new international language GCSEs will build learners’ confidence and resilience and encourage them to experiment and take risks. Finding out about other societies and cultures will develop learners’ empathy and curiosity about other cultures and identities, helping them to become informed global citizens.

What will learners be assessed on?

Understanding and response

• Understand and respond to different types of spoken and written language.
• Identify the message, key points, opinions and details in a variety of spoken and written passages.
• Use knowledge of grammar to support understanding.

Communication and expression

• Communicate and interact clearly for a variety of purposes.
• Communicate meaning in speaking and in writing.
• Use generally accurate pronunciation to communicate with a speaker of the assessed language.

How will learners be assessed?

• 45-50% of the qualifications will be assessed through non-exam assessment
  • 30% will be assessed through speaking and listening
  • 15-20% will focus on reading and writing
• 50-55% of the qualifications will be assessed through exams
• All exams must be taken at the end of the course, and submission of non-exam assessment tasks must take place within the final year of the course.

For more details on the purpose and aims, content and assessment arrangements of this qualification, please read the full design proposal.

We also have a Youth Friendly version for you to access.