Welsh (First Language) - A Level

The AS year (The first year of study)
There are three areas of study based on the core assessments of speaking, reading, listening and writing:

CA1: Speaking exam based on the Welsh film “Hedd Wyn” and a chosen Welsh play, working in a group of 2-3 testing your study of the film and play.

CA2: Coursework: This is designed to develop your skills in writing creatively for example writing a short story, the first chapter of a novel, diary, monologue, a series of blogs.

CA3: A written exam based on grammar and poetry. You will respond to questions testing your understanding of grammar. You will also write about twentieth and twenty-first century poems studied in class.

In the second year of study there are three units to be completed:

CA4: Speaking exam based on the study of a Welsh novel: Un Nos Ola Leuad, Dan Gadarn Goncrit, Martha, Jac a Sianco or Blasu. Students will take part in a speaking exam in groups and will respond to questions testing their knowledge of the chosen novel.

CA5: A 2 hour written exam testing the following areas: Medieval prose and early medieval poetry.

CA6: A 2 hour written exam on the appreciation of Welsh literature.

5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including English Language/Welsh (1st Language) and Maths plus the following criteria:

– GCSE Welsh 1st Language at grade B/6 or above.

At Coleg Cambria we would encourage you to do the very best that you can in your exams. The better your grades the more options you will have, and may result in you gaining entry onto a higher level course.

The importance of studying Welsh is obvious, whatever your career aspirations may be. Employers now state the desirability of a qualification in Welsh when applying for jobs. You may choose to study this subject for your own enjoyment but career opportunities are created from possessing a qualification in Welsh such as teaching, translating, interpreting and working with businesses that require communication in Welsh.

Languages combine well with any subject now that more Higher Education Institutions are offering greater possibilities to continue language study. A study of language requires imagination, self-discipline and the ability to communicate. These are highly desirable qualities for prospective employers.

Some courses may require equipment and/or uniforms to be purchased. Please see attached equipment list for further information.