Group 2: Second language
The aim of group 2 subjects is to promote an understanding of another culture through the study of a second language. A large range of modern languages are available.
The study of a modern language entails acquiring a language system and applying it in four active and interrelated ways: through listening, speaking, reading and writing. These four skills involve exchanging ideas and effective communication. Effective communication, in turn, involves the intellectual process of understanding how ideas can best be expressed to the audience concerned. Understanding ideas, and expressing them clearly and convincingly, demands an awareness of the cultural characteristics of the audience.
The main emphasis of the modern language courses is on language acquisition and use in a range of contexts and for different purposes. Two options are available to accommodate students with different backgrounds. Language B ab initio courses are for beginners (that is, students who have no previous experience of learning the language they have chosen). These courses are only available at standard level. Language B courses are intended for students who have had some previous experience of learning the language. They may be studied at either higher level or standard level.
Please note that the ab initio language courses may vary year to year.
At ISU, we currently offer the following group 2 languages:
English B
French B
French ab initio
Mandarin B