1. Higher Modern Languages

2. Course Content external
Paper One
Reading ( 20 marks )
Translation ( 10 marks )
Directed Writing ( 15 marks )
1 hour 40 minutes
Paper Two
Listening ( 20 marks )
Personal Essay ( 10 marks )
1 hour
A dictionary is allowed in both papers

3. course content internal
Speaking
Presentation ( 10 marks )
Discussion ( 15 marks )
6-10 minutes, taped
Total marks for all exams = 100, 1 mark = 1 %

4. NABs Reading and Listening
Based on the 3 Higher themes of Lifestyles, Education and Work, the Wider World
Pass mark is 60%
Both may be sat up to a maximum of 3 times
Dictionaries are allowed
Writing
Personal response essay to a film or book
Pass at Good or Very Good category
Speaking
Dual purpose with External Exam

5. Home study : grammar What should be given priority ?
Knowledge of verbs is crucial
Past, present and to a lesser extent future
Why ?
Pass or fail in Writing is dependent on correct use of verbs
How should grammar be studied ?
Learn all grammar notes thoroughly and complete all exercises set

6. Home study : vocabulary
What should be given priority ?
All specialised topic vocabulary eg. health
Introductory, time and opinion phrases
Linking words, constructions, conclusions
Why ?
All four skills are dependent on such knowledge
Ultimate mark in Writing determined by quality and range of vocabulary
How should vocabulary be studied ?
Keep everything up to date under different categories
Aim for 90% at tests

7. Home study : essay writing
What should be done to improve personal essay writing ?
Apply grammar meticulously
Employ a wide range of vocabulary and structures
Apply success criteria
Make use of support material : general essay terms plus topic specific sheets
Make use of sample essays – these will be issued and discussed.
Re-draft at all times
Be able to back up thoughts and opinions on issues

8. Home study : speaking
What should be done to achieve well at Speaking ?
Keep all end of topic questions up to date
Re-draft all corrected versions on to question and answer cards
Record answers at home
Why is Speaking so important ?
Excellent means of achieving good marks
10% of overall grade is awarded for Presentation which can be prepared in advance
Remaining 15% is awarded for Discussion which will be based on work covered in class

9. Home study : listening/reading
What should be done to improve Listening ?
Use Higher CD for extra practice at home addresses please
Use Higher CD to consolidate class work
Make use of Scholar programme
Use recommended Internet sources
What should be done to improve Reading ?
Make use of Advice Notes
Use Extra Practice booklet