GCSE German Tutors

A guide to GCSE German

GCSE German has long been a popular subject for students, offering a blend of practical skills development, intellectual challenges and the option for further study for work, travel and other opportunities abroad. Let’s take a closer look at the subject and what the course entails.

Why study German?

German is mainland Europe’s most widely spoken native language and it is one that will unlock tremendous opportunities for students. German universities are the fourth most popular destination for further study in the world and the country’s economy is a true powerhouse. The German language is also key to unlocking some of the finest philosophy, poetry and literature ever written and it is an official world language of science, technology and innovation. Even better, it is a relatively easy language for English speakers to learn, with shared vocabulary and conjugations that offer a head start.

The structure of the GCSE

This is a linear qualification which means that a period of structured study is followed by an exam. Every exam board will have slightly different structures and requirements for the GCSE. Assessments are based upon the study of the following themes:

1. Culture and identity
2. Local to global areas of German interest
3. Opportunities for study and employment in Germany

The GCSE offers both a foundational level tier at grades 1-5 and a higher tier level of study at grades 4-9. Students are required to sit each of the four question papers at the relevant tier level and within the same series. These papers assess listening, writing and spoken skills.

Listening paper 1

This paper assesses how students understand spoken German and how they respond to it. The written exam takes between 30-45 minutes depending on the tier and represents a quarter of the final GCSE mark.

Speaking paper 2

This paper assesses how well the student can communicate in spoken German and interact using speech skills in a variety of situations. It is assessed within 7-12 minutes with extra time to prepare and the score achieved will comprise 25% of the final GCSE score. The format of the exam is a role play with general conversation.

Reading paper 3

This is a paper lasting between 45 minutes and an hour which, again, represents 25% of the final GCSE. Questions are either in English or German, depending on the level of study and there is a translation exercise from German into English.

Writing paper 4

This assesses effective written communication and takes place within an exam that lasts for 1 – 1 hour 15 minutes. Its score represents the final 25% of the final grade.

What can students do with GCSE German

GCSE German is an excellent foundation study for further language qualifications. It will provide a base level understanding of the language at a level which will allow students to build their knowledge and to start to operate in daily life using German. Students can progress from GCSE German to AS and A-level German before taking their studies further at university level if they wish.

How the Profs can help

Our team of highly experienced professional tutors can help you to achieve the best possible results from your GCSE German studies. We offer flexible tuition packages built around your needs. Whatever your goal, we can help you to get there and to overcome any challenges and blockers which may otherwise prevent you from reaching your full potential with GCSE German.

We also offer a wide range of other tuition and academic preparation services. Please contact our friendly team to find out more about how we can help you.