A-level languages to be marked more fairly, says Ofqual. 26 September 2014Last updated at 13:12 ET By Judith Burns Education reporter, BBC News Language teachers say they have been complaining about inconsistent marking at A-level for over a decade A-levels in modern foreign languages will be marked more fairly from next summer, the exams regulator, Ofqual, has promised. The changes follow complaints from schools that too few students were getting top marks in language exams compared with other subjects. Head teachers had described grading as "unpredictable and inaccurate".
The changes mean "those who should get the higher grades will do so", said chief regulator, Glenys Stacey. A review of modern language A-level exams by Ofqual found questions were often ineffective in differentiating between students or identifying the most able. Marking 'unclear' Some mark schemes were unclear about what constituted a correct answer, said the report. It also said some exam structures awarded too many marks for speaking and too few for writing. Languages: The State of the Nation - Summary by British Academy.
State of the Nation REPORT WEB. Why study languages at A-level? | Why study languages? If you’re reading this page it’s because you’re considering studying languages at A-level and want the inside scoop on what it’s actually like. Internet Explorer users: If the video does not play for you please try again in compatibility mode You may think that languages aren’t really relevant to today's modern world; everyone speaks English, right? Wrong. Languages are all around us; they are used in so many situations whether at work, on holiday or just casually in day-to-day life - we live in a multilingual global society. Top tip: ”Choosing an A-level language is a really smart move if you want a fascinating subject that offers you a range of career possibilities at the end and are a lot of fun along the way.” Choosing an A-level language is a really smart move if you want a fascinating subject that offers you a range of career possibilities at the end and are a lot of fun along the way.
What is the A-level course like? What other subjects can I study? What GCSE grade do I need? Options with your subject: Modern languages. From solicitor to retail buyer, language skills are in demand and can be used in almost any career Job options Jobs directly related to your degree include: Jobs where your degree would be useful include: Remember that many employers accept applications from graduates with any degree subject, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here. To find out what jobs would suit you, log in to My Prospects. Work experience Most modern language degree programmes offer a year abroad (usually the third year). Some graduates wanting a long-term career using their language skills choose to take on a short-term role, such as teaching English, while living abroad and perfecting their language skills. Another option is to embark on a career in interpreting or translating. Search for placements and find out more about work experience and internships and self-employment.
Typical employers Some modern language graduates work on a self-employed basis as interpreters or translators. Skills for your CV.