German
Head of Department
Ms C Byrne (Head of MFL)
Qualification
A Level
Exam Board
Edexcel
Entry Requirements
7 in German
6 in English Language or 6 in English Literature
Why study this course
Studying German at A Level not only improves your language skills, but also provides deep insights into Germany’s rich history, vibrant culture, and influential role in Europe and the world.
German is spoken by over 100 million people as a native language and is the most widely spoken language in the European Union. It is an official language in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Liechtenstein, and is taught widely across the globe.
Germany operates a strong international network of cultural institutions, such as the Goethe-Institut, which offers German-language courses to hundreds of thousands of learners worldwide. These institutes also promote German culture through events in music, film, literature, and more.
The ability to speak German and English is a major asset in the global job market. Germany is Europe’s largest economy and one of the world’s leading exporters. A knowledge of German opens doors to careers in international business, engineering, science, tourism, and diplomacy.
German is a key language in international organizations including the European Union, the United Nations, and various scientific communities. It is also a major language of academic research and publishing.
By studying German and exploring German-speaking cultures, students gain a broader understanding of global perspectives. They develop empathy, intellectual curiosity, and strong communication skills—valuable assets in any career path.
Course Overview
A-level German is assessed through Papers 1, 2 and 3.
- Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation
- Paper 2: Written response to works and translation
- Paper 3: Speaking
Further information about these can be found on the specification, linked further down.
Theme 1: Gesellschaftliche Entwicklung in Deutschland
This theme is set in the context of Germany only and covers social issues and trends.
Natur und Umwelt
• Umweltbewusstsein
• Recycling
• erneuerbare Energie
• nachhaltig leben
Bildung
• Bildungswesen und die Situation von Studenten
• Sitzenbleiben
• Berufsausbildung
Die Welt der Arbeit
• Das Arbeitsleben in Deutschland und die Arbeitsmoral
• deutsche Geschäfte und Industrien
Theme 2: Politische und künstlerische Kultur im deutschen Sprachraum
This theme is set in the context of German-speaking countries and communities. It covers artistic and political culture.
Musik
• Wandel und Trends
• Einfluss der Musik auf die populäre Kultur
Die Medien
• Fernsehen
• Digital-, Print- und Onlinemedien
• Einfluss auf Gesellschaft und Politik
Die Rolle von Festen und Traditionen
• Feste
• Feiern
• Sitten
• Traditionen
Theme 3: Immigration und die deutsche multikulturelle Gesellschaft
This theme is set in the context of Germany only and covers social issues and trends.
Die positive Auswirkung von Immigration
• Beitrag der Immigranten zur Wirtschaft und Kultur
Die Herausforderungen von Immigration und Integration
• Maßnahmen von Gemeinden und örtlichen Gemeinschaften
• Ausgrenzung und Entfremdung aus der Sicht von Immigranten
Die staatliche soziale Reaktion zur Immigration
• Rechtsvorschriften
• politische Annäherung an Gastarbeiter, Immigranten und Asylbewerber
• die öffentliche Meinung
Theme 4: Die Wiedervereinigung Deutschlands
This theme is set in the context of Germany only and covers political culture.
Die Gesellschaft in der DDR vor der Wiedervereinigung
• Arbeit
• Wohnungswesen
• kommunistische Prinzipien
• das Verhältnis zum Westen
Ereignisse vor der Wiedervereinigung
• Der Zusammenbruch des Kommunismus
• der Fall der Berliner Mauer
Deutschland seit der Wiedervereinigung
• Migration von Ost nach West
• Arbeitslosigkeit in der früheren DDR
• Auswirkungen auf Schulen in Deutschland
Exam specification
Enrichment
- Work Placement in Germany: Year 12 students take part in a one-week work placement in Germany. They stay with local families, gaining valuable insights into German culture, language, and the working environment.
- Cultural Trips: Visits to museums and exhibitions showcasing German art, history, and innovation in London and beyond.
- Primary School Outreach: Students deliver engaging German language sessions to primary school children, developing leadership and communication skills.
- Global Perspectives: Learners explore the diversity of German-speaking cultures across Europe and the world, enhancing their intercultural understanding.
Future Pathways
German is a highly respected subject by universities, particularly those in the Russell Group, due to the analytical, linguistic, and cultural skills it develops.
Possible Careers:
- Interpreter
- MFL Teacher
- Translator
- Journalist
- Detective
- Diplomatic Service Officer
- International Aid/Development Worker
- Marketing Executive
- Tourism Industry Professional
- Medical Writer