This workbook was written to support students and teachers preparing for the
listening component of the NEW GCSE French exams beginning in 2026 (first
teaching September 2024).
Each unit follows a PIRCO sequence consists of:
- Pre-listening - A comprehensive vocabulary-building phase featuring 11-12 microreading and micro-listening tasks that introduce key vocabulary from the upcoming
listening text.
- In-listening - A selective listening phase with structured comprehension tasks,
including 3-4 questions, true/false/not mentioned activities, and content reordering
exercises, typically preceded by a 'word grab' game.
- Review - Students listen to the text while reading the transcript, identifying
obstacles to comprehension. Teachers may follow up with strategy instruction to
tackle these challenges.
- Consolidation - Reinforcement of key vocabulary through aural and reading tasks.
- Output
exercises, essential for reinforcing lexical and syntactic patterns.
- Retrieval of target vocabulary through translation and partial dictation
students' retention of language elements processed in the PIRCO phase.
Each unit concludes with 2-3 pages of exam-style listening tasks, designed to assess
Topics covered in Part One:
Healthy living
Celebrity culture and entertainment
Environment
Customs, festivals and celebrations
Media and technology
Answers and transcripts are available in a separate book.
