AS/A Level Welsh (Second Language)

Key Details

Available at:
Rhos-on-Sea
Study Mode:
Full-time
Course Length:
1-2 years

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AS/A Level Welsh (Second Language)

School Leavers

Rhos-on-Sea

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Applying for more than one A Level?

You can apply from this page and you will have the opportunity to add your additional A Level subjects at the end of the application process. You can find the A Level subject grid to make your choices on our main A Level page.

Please note: We recommend that you have access to a laptop or Chromebook to enable coursework to be completed digitally at home. There is a dedicated IT Digital Inclusion fund to support those learners who do not have a digital device and are unable to purchase one.

Course Description

Would you like to develop your understanding of spoken and written Welsh? This course develops your communicative skills in speaking, reading and writing. It also broadens your awareness of Welsh culture and life. It provides a coherent and worthwhile curriculum, extending your language skills to an advanced level. It also allows you to boost your career options and Higher Education prospects.

The course is suitable if you have completed a higher-level GCSE in second language Welsh, and want to continue studying. It can be taken as part of a full-time programme of study, in conjunction with other AS/A Level subjects, or possibly with other Level 3 courses.

The course can also be taken on a part-time basis by mature students.

Welsh is a subject which requires candidates to consider moral, ethical, social and cultural issues while reading, studying and discussing a wide range of Welsh literature encompassing many centuries. Both the AS and A2 years will cover a number of topics, enhancing your skills and understanding.

Year 1 (AS)

CA1 Oral: In this unit you will study the Welsh film ‘Hedd Wyn', before discussing it in the oral exam. You will be able to boost your confidence in Welsh, as well as studying an aspect of Welsh culture.

CA2 Coursework: In this unit you will look at a topic of your choice, which must have a Welsh theme. For example, you could study sport activities in Rhyl, or tourism in your own local area. This allows you to strengthen your knowledge and skills in a specific field.

CA3 Language and Poetry: For this unit you will study 7 Welsh poems, learn Welsh idioms, and examine Welsh grammar. This will build on what you learned at GCSE level, as well introducing additional elements of Welsh culture.

Year 2 (A2)

CA4 Oral: For this unit you will study the play ‘Siwan' and discuss it in the oral exam. This furthers your appreciation of Welsh literature and boosts your language skills.

CA5 Short Stories and Trans-languaging: This will allow you study 4 short stories, as well as writing a response in Welsh to an English article.

CA6 Language and Poetry: This will continue to build on your GCSE and AS level studies. You will improve your understanding of grammar and learn how to appreciate Welsh poems at an advanced level.

Entry Criteria

Applying for A Levels? Click ‘Apply Now’ on any of the subjects you are interested in studying. You will be able to specify your other two A Level choices during the online application process.

The A Level subject grids for each campus can be found in the guides on the A Level section of the website.

In order to qualify for this course, you will need the following:

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English or Welsh 1st Language
GCSE Welsh (2nd Language Higher Level) grade C

As part of the application process, you will be asked to attend an interview to give you the opportunity to discuss the course.

Progression to A Level is based on your performance at AS Level.

Delivery

The course is delivered through a blend of the following:

Classroom learning
Discussions
Analytical reading, writing and responding
Working with forms of media, such as films, articles and literature

Your programme will include a combination of:

Essential Skills qualifications and/or
GCSE resits and/or
The Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate is a valuable qualification which is often studied alongside your Level 3 full-time course.

The qualification is graded A*-E, carrying the equivalent UCAS points at Level 3, and equips you with transferable personal and business skills. It is highly regarded by universities and employers alike.

As part of the qualification, you will learn about Global Citizenship, Enterprise and Employability and take part in community engagement and work experience.

Essential Skills

This may include a combination of Application of Number, Communication, Digital Literacy and Essential Employability Skills

GCSE resits

This may include GCSE Numeracy/Maths and/or Welsh/English Language.

Maths & Welsh/English

If you don't achieve a C or above in Maths and/ or English/Welsh, we will support you to retake these subjects as part of your study programme.

Assessment

The course is assessed as follows:

You will have external examinations in May and June each year
You will also complete oral assessments and coursework

Progression

Whether you gain the full A Level or just the AS Level, the course adds to your qualifications and helps you to progress. You will gain UCAS points and be able to apply for a range of Higher Education courses at many institutions. This includes degrees in Welsh, Translation Studies and other language-based subjects, as well as many other options.

In addition, the Welsh language skills you develop will enhance your job prospects and your appreciation of Welsh culture and communities. You will be able to progress into careers within Wales and beyond, including roles in local government, the Welsh Government, the Health sector, Education and Media.