A Level Irish

Studying Irish at A level will give you a fascinating insight into the world of Irish while also giving you a true sense of identity as an Irish citizen. You will:

• Develop the ability to communicate confidently and effectively in Irish in both speech and writing.
• Learn about the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of Ireland and communities where Irish is spoken.
• Develop personally by strengthening your confidence and helping you gain a positive
  attitude to learning and independent study.
• Explore and discuss contemporary societal issues through the medium of Irish.
• Explore an aspect of Irish society and Irish literature.
• Experience life in the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht.

 

Course Units - 2 at AS / 2 at A2

At AS you will study the following topic areas:

• Relationships
  
  
• Culture and lifestyle
  
  
• Irish Grammar

This will be assessed through:

 

• Unit 1: Speaking. This unit consists of a three minute presentation based on one of the topic areas followed by a general conversation for eight minutes.
  
  
• Unit 2: Listening, Reading comprehension, translation from Irish to English and English to Irish and use of language.
  
  
• Unit 3: Writing – one extended writing question based on an Irish film or literary text.
  
  The AS Irish course is worth 40% of the full A level qualification, A2 is worth 60%.

At A2 you will study the following topic areas:

• Young people in society
  
  
• Our place in a changing world

This will be assessed through:

• Unit 1: Speaking. This unit consists of a six minute discussion based on a research project followed by a general conversation for eight to ten minutes. Topics for the research project include Irish culture, the study of a region of Ireland or a historical period in the 20th century.
  
  
• Unit 2: Listening, Reading comprehension, a summary question and translation from English to Irish.
  
  
• Unit 3: Writing – one extended writing question based on a literary text. The literary text will be a poetry collection, a play or a collection of short stories.

A Level Irish

This qualification requires pupils to have:

7 GCSEs A*-C - plus a at least a B grade in GCSE Irish.

Studying Irish has given us the chance to develop our national language while studying an enjoyable course in relation to current issues. By studying Irish you also get the opportunity to spend time in the Gaeltacht. This allows you to meet new people and greatly enhance your Irish abilities. A course in Irish can lead to many job opportunities such as translating, teaching and work in the media.
Aisling Durkin and Rebecca Flynn (Past Pupils)