FCSE Modern Foreign Languages


FCSE Chinese (Mandarin)

From September 2009 all 24 FCSE Chinese (Mandarin) Units will be available ie Set 1 Units 1 – 12, Set 2 Units 1 – 12.

Assessment materials can be ordered free of charge, by using this order form.

Orders should be placed as early as possible but will be accepted at any time.

For further information on FCSE, ELC or the new GCSE Mandarin qualifications please look at this website which is updated regularly or contact the MFL Department by e-mail or tel: 01423 534381

Assessment materials available to order
Intention to Enter and Estimated Entries
Teachers of Chinese FCSE
(Examinations Update 36)

AQA has a new and an exciting qualification called FCSE (Foundation Certificate of Secondary Education).

Who is it for?

  • FCSE fills a gap: teachers told us that pupils who learn a Modern Foreign Language up to the end of Key Stage 3, but choose not to continue, have nothing to show for 3 (or more) years of language learning.
  • FCSE is suitable for a wide age range:
    • primary
    • Key Stage 3 (years 7–9)
    • Key Stage 4 (years 10–11)
    • Sixth Formers
    • adult learners.

What do they learn?

  • FCSE is available in:
    • Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian and Spanish (September 2008).
  • Material routinely taught at KS3 is assessed: no prescribed content or vocabulary.
  • Twelve units are arranged in four themes, corresponding to current GCSE themes.
  • FCSE includes all four language skills:
    • listening
    • speaking
    • reading
    • writing.

How are pupils assessed?

  • We provide externally-set, centre-assessed assignments in Listening and Reading. We plan to provide on-screen tests in the future.
  • Listening and Reading specimen materials in all four languages are available, see Specimen materials at the top left hand side of this page.
  • Teachers set and mark the Speaking and Writing assignments. If teachers prefer not to set their own, they can use assignments supplied by us.
  • There are three levels of award:
    • Pass
    • Merit
    • Distinction
    covering National Curriculum Levels 4, 5 and 6.

Versatile, flexible and manageable

  • Pupils attempt assignments when a topic has been covered, at different stages in the course, and can re-take if required.
  • Practice assignments are available.
  • Teachers choose which units to cover and send us evidence from three of them for moderation.
  • Administrative procedures are simple: paperwork is minimal and under the teacher's control.
  • As an alternative to completing the full qualification, individual units can be studied and accredited through AQA's Unit Award Scheme