spanish

Spanish

Mrs M Cox

Head of Department

INTRODUCTION

Studying Spanish offers students valuable skills that extend beyond language proficiency. It enhances communication abilities, allowing students to connect with Spanish speakers around the world, while building an understanding of a different culture.

Learning Spanish also improves cognitive skills, such as problem-solving, multitasking, and memory retention, as it challenges the brain to think in different ways.

Additionally, Spanish opens up career opportunities in a globalized world, particularly in fields like business, health care, and international relations.

FACILITIES

The Spanish room is a fun, vibrant and interactive space where students avail of a wide range of resources to support their language learning. We incorporate a lot of digital resources into our Learning and Teaching such as the Pearson ActivTeach package, Quizlet and The Language Gym to increase participation and interaction.

Students also avail of modern textbooks such as the "Viva" textbooks and "The Language Gym" books at Key Stages 3 and 4. Modern dictionaries are on hand to support progression and students are taught how to utilise apps such as Quizlet and Word Reference in their independent study.

At A Level students use many current and relevant materials ranging from newspapers, magazines, newsletters and websites to discuss current and societal affairs. Students also study literature and film and have access to the relevant materials throughout their studies.

To increase relevance and inspire a passion for Hispanic culture, we maintain links with partners in Spain and we also organise trips to Spain; with our next one scheduled for September 2025 to Barcelona!

KEY STAGE 3

Students study Spanish in line with the Modern Languages Framework for Northern Ireland. In Years 8, 9 and 10 students have 3 lessons of Spanish per week where we inspire a love of language and culture, and based on the Principles of Integrated Education, we do all of this whilst promoting values such as mutual respect, tolerance and understanding.

From Years 8 to 10 students embark on a learning journey through key topics that will give them the foundation required to progress to GCSE.
Main topics include:
1. Mi Vida - My life - to include basic phonics, greetings, personality, numbers, ages, birthdays, pets, colours, using adjectives.
2. Mi Tiempo Libre - My Free Time - to include free time verbs and activities, sport, music, giving opinions and understanding the present tense.
3. Mi Insti - My School - to include subjects, opinions, teachers, facilities, recreational activities and further consolidation of the present tense; whilst appreciating the differences and similarities between school life here and in Hispanic countries.
4. Mi familia y los amigos - Family and friends - to include - family members, ages, descriptions, housing.
5. Mi Ciudad - My Town to include - places in town, descriptions, the time, directions, making plans with friends, ordering in a cafe, future tense, shopping.
6. Las Vacaciones - Holidays - to include, countries, nationalities, transport and travel, past tense.
7. Mi Vida en Casa - to include - house, chores, daily routine, health and lifestyle, food and drink, reflexive verbs

Consolidation of KS3 Learning and preparation for GCSE.

Throughout the 3 years of study students will also celebrate and learn more about various Hispanic fiestas including, the Day of the Dead, La Navidad, Holy Week, La Tomatina, Las Fallas and various others.

GCSE

We follow the CCEA GCSE Spanish course which is designed to develop students' enthusiasm for the Spanish language while boosting their confidence in the four key skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

The course is assessed after two years through the four key skills:
Listening paper - 25%
Reading paper - 25%
Speaking exam - 25%
Writing paper - 25%

The course is divided into three contexts for learning which are as follows:
Context 1 - Identity, Lifestyle, and Culture: Understanding personal and social identity, daily life, and cultural activities.
Context 2: Local, National, International, and Global Areas of Interest: Discussing environmental issues, travel, and tourism.
Context 3: School Life, Studies, and the World of Work: Exploring education systems, career choices, and future aspirations1.

Skills Developed:
Communication: Enhances the ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in Spanish.
Cultural Awareness: Provides insights into Spanish-speaking cultures, fostering a global perspective.
Analytical Skills: Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.
Cross-Cultural Skills: Prepares students to interact with people from diverse backgrounds.

A-LEVEL

We continue to follow the CCEA GCE Spanish specification at A Level which is designed to develop students' enthusiasm for the Spanish language and deepen their understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures. It is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience through both AS and A2 levels. Student s will also enjoy the privilege of engaging regularly with a Spanish Language Assistant.

Course Structure: The course is divided into six units:

AS Level:
Speaking: Assessed through an oral examination.
Listening, Reading, and Use of Language: Evaluated through a written exam.
Extended Writing: Focuses on writing skills through a written exam.

A2 Level:
Speaking: Another oral examination, building on AS skills.
Listening and Reading: Assessed through a written exam.
Extended Writing: Further development of writing skills through a written exam.

Key Features:
Communication Skills: Students learn to communicate confidently and effectively in Spanish for various purposes.
Cultural Understanding: The course covers societal, political, and cultural issues in Spanish-speaking countries, both past and present.
Higher Order Thinking: Emphasis on independent learning, analytical thinking, and evaluative skills.
Research Opportunities: Students engage in independent research and use multimedia to present their findings.

The CCEA GCE Spanish course is ideal for students looking to enhance their language skills and cultural awareness, paving the way for diverse career opportunities and personal growth.

FURTHER EDUCATION & CAREERS

By learning Spanish, you open the door to a rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities, and countless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The ability to speak another language is a desirable asset for many employers who are willing to pay 10% more to linguists.
Some of our past students have embarked on exciting pathways ranging from law to hospitality.

Studying Spanish can lead to exciting further courses and career pathways in various fields, including:
International Business: Work with multinational companies, manage cross-cultural teams, and expand into Spanish-speaking markets.

Education: Teach Spanish at different levels, from primary schools to universities, or work in educational administration.

Translation and Interpretation: Provide essential language services in legal, medical, and corporate settings.
Tourism and Hospitality: Enhance the travel experience for Spanish-speaking tourists and work in global travel companies.

Diplomacy and International Relations: Serve in embassies, consulates, and international organizations, promoting cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.

ERNE
INTEGRATED
COLLEGE

Spanish

INTRODUCTION

FACILITIES

KEY STAGE 3

GCSE

A-LEVEL

FURTHER EDUCATION & CAREERS

GALLERY

ERNE INTEGRATED COLLEGE

Spanish

INTRODUCTION

FACILITIES

KEY STAGE 3

GCSE

A-LEVEL

FURTHER EDUCATION & CAREERS

GALLERY

ERNE
INTEGRATED
COLLEGE