What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
Spanish Ab Initio is a Spanish language-learning programme designed for study at Standard Level by students with no previous experience of learning the language. Your current language teacher will be able to help you make the best choice about which language to pursue.
What will I learn on this course?
The programme is communicative in that it focuses principally on interaction between speakers and writers of the language. The main aim of the programme is to prepare students to use the language appropriately in a range of contexts and in a variety of purposes. During the two year course you will be taught vocabulary and grammar that will enable you to communicate in everyday situations. You will also become familiar with the culture of the country or countries where the language is spoken.
What kind of student is this course suitable for?
IB is suitable for students who have obtained a minimum of five A* to C grades at GCSE. A typical IB student is highly motivated with an enquiring mind and able to work independently. The IB programme fulfils the needs of students who are capable of analysing their own strengths and weaknesses and who are not afraid to take risks in a learning context. IB students have good communication skills and display empathy for the needs of others.
How will my work be assessed?
Students will be assessed regularly on their text-handling techniques, which involve reading comprehensions and their written response to the texts. They are also tested on their vocabulary and grammar on a regular basis.
- Paper one: Text Handling
- 1 ½ hours
-
40% You may have to answer multiple choice or gap fill questions and you will also be required to complete a short writing exercise. Students will also be assessed regularly on their writing techniques and will be expected to demonstrate an ability to write in a range of different styles for different purposes, with the appropriate language, vocabulary and register to fit the purpose.
- Oral component
- Individual oral: 10 mins
- 30% The Oral component consists of two oral assessments, one individual with the teacher and one group.
What skills can I develop by taking this course?
The Spanish Ab Initio programme helps to develop all the skills included in the IB Learner Profile:
Communication skills and Open-mindedness
Students are expected to be able to communicate information and basic ideas clearly and effectively by the end of the course. Group work, discussions and presentations in the target language will form part of the course. Students are expected to become familiar with aspects of everyday life and the culture of the countries in which the target language is spoken. They should begin to understand the differences between their own culture and that of the language they are learning.
Becoming a Reflective Learner, Inquirer and Risk-taker
You will analyse your own strengths and weaknesses in a constructive manner and will give thoughtful consideration to your own learning. You will be encouraged to become an independent active learner and to use the target language in and outside the classroom. Through discussion and listening to other students’ points of view, your independence of spirit will be nurtured and you will approach unfamiliar situations with confidence.
Theory of Knowledge
The Spanish Ab Initio course provides opportunities at Standard Level for exercising initiative and creativity in approaching communication problems.
What could I go on to do at the end of this course?
There will be a range of opportunities open to you, where you can continue to use and further develop your language skills and knowledge of contemporary society. Some students choose to do degree courses in languages; others choose to pursue a Higher Education course in another subject, but choose a language option alongside it. Having a language at IB will certainly improve your employability, in particular with companies which have international branches. Whether you are interested in continuing your studies or working at home or abroad, a language course at IB is an excellent step towards achieving your goals.