German for IB students
German can be selected as one of your six International Baccalaureate subjects and can be studied at either standard or higher level. This particular course offers students the opportunity to reach a high level of competence in German language as well as exploring German culture through language.

The main focus of the course is on language acquisition. If your aim is to speak German well, and to understand the language in a broader sense, you should consider German at IB level. You may only be starting out in learning German, but the skills learnt here will far exceed those expected of most beginners. This challenging, yet rewarding course will prepare you well whether you intend to use your language skills for leisure and pleasure, or as the basis for a future career.

Assessment
In general terms, standard and higher level subjects are both studied throughout years 12 and 13. There are no examinations in Year 12 as all IB examinations take place in May of Year 13. In addition to the examinations you must complete a CAS journal, the theory of knowledge component and an extended essay. Each subject studied carries seven points and final grades are awarded according to a points system. The maximum mark is 45 points, made up of a potential seven points for each of the six subjects, plus three points that are available for the theory of knowledge and extended essay components.

In relation to taking German, only two papers are taken in Year 13. One, which accounts for 70% of available marks, tests reading and writing skills. The other, covering the remaining 30% of available marks, is an oral examination. There is not a separate listening test.

Enrichment activities
Having achieved specialist Language College status, Slough Grammar School offers a broad range of high quality language enrichment activities. From visits to Germany through exchange programmes and work experience abroad to ICT activities, students are encouraged to open their minds and develop their skills. Our students are very fortunate in having native speaking Foreign Language Assistants working with them in the sixth form - there really is nothing like the challenge of working with a native speaker to polish your language skills!

Beyond the sixth form
It is our intention that our students will be ready to take their place in a world where language skills and understanding of other cultures are becoming increasingly important. Language qualifications will help those students wishing to consider further education or employment in areas such as teaching, travel, leisure and tourism, economics, politics and many other disciplines - never before have language skills been so useful, or in such demand.