The "Wales and the World – Areas of Interest" module in the WJEC French curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive exploration of France within a global context while examining its connections with Wales. This module aims to deepen students' understanding of French culture, history, society, politics, economy, and language through a structured and interdisciplinary approach. Here are key aspects covered in this module:

Key aspects:

Cultural exchange and comparisons

Traditions and Celebrations:

• Wales: Students explore the Eisteddfod, a significant Welsh cultural festival that celebrates literature, music, and performance arts. This event emphasizes the Welsh language and cultural identity, showcasing talents and fostering community pride.

• France: Comparative analysis includes festivals like Bastille Day (14th July), commemorating the French Revolution with parades, fireworks, and cultural events nationwide. Regional festivals such as the Carnaval de Nice or the Festival d'Avignon highlight local traditions, arts, and culinary delights.

Importance: By studying these celebrations, students gain insights into how cultural events serve as platforms for cultural expression, community bonding, and the preservation of heritage. They also explore how historical contexts and regional diversity influence the form and significance of these festivities in Wales and France.

Cuisine:

• Welsh Cuisine: Students examine traditional Welsh dishes such as Welsh cakes (griddle cakes with currants), cawl (a hearty stew), and laverbread (seaweed-based dish). These foods reflect Wales' agricultural heritage and coastal influences.

• French Cuisine: Comparative study includes iconic French dishes like coq au vin (chicken braised in wine), bouillabaisse (fish stew), and a variety of regional cheeses such as Roquefort and Camembert. French cuisine is renowned for its sophistication, regional diversity, and emphasis on quality ingredients.

Importance: Exploring cuisine provides students with an understanding of how geography, climate, history, and cultural practices shape culinary traditions. They analyze the role of food in cultural identity, social rituals, and daily life, as well as its significance in cultural diplomacy and global gastronomy.

Societal Values:

• Wales: Analysis focuses on cultural values such as community spirit, hospitality, and the preservation of Welsh language and traditions. There is an increasing emphasis on environmental consciousness, reflected in conservation efforts and sustainable practices.

• France: Students examine values like efficiency, innovation (especially in engineering and technology), and cultural diversity. France's approach to multiculturalism is explored through policies and societal attitudes towards integration and diversity.

Historical Perspectives

Key Historical Events:

• French Revolution: Students examine the French Revolution of 1789, a pivotal event that overthrew the monarchy and established principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. They analyze the social, political, and economic causes of the revolution, its impact on French society, and its reverberations across Europe and beyond.

• Napoleonic Wars: Analysis focuses on Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power, military campaigns across Europe, and the establishment of the Napoleonic Empire. Students explore the wars' consequences on European geopolitics, French nationalism, and the spread of revolutionary ideals.

• World Wars: Students study France's involvement in both World War I and World War II, analyzing military strategies, societal impacts, and post-war reconstruction efforts. They examine France's role in alliances, resistance movements, and its quest for peace and European unity after the devastation of war.

• Decolonization: Exploration includes France's process of decolonization in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean during the 20th century. Students analyze the challenges, conflicts, and legacies of French colonialism, as well as the implications for global geopolitics and Franco-African relations.

France and Wales:

• Diplomatic Relations: Students examine the historical diplomatic relations between France and Wales, focusing on alliances, treaties, and periods of cooperation or conflict. They explore diplomatic exchanges that have influenced cultural, economic, and political ties between the two nations.

• Cultural Exchanges: Analysis includes cultural interactions such as artistic movements, literary exchanges, and intellectual collaborations between France and Wales. Students explore how cultural exchanges have enriched both societies and contributed to mutual understanding and appreciation.

• Historical Figures: Exploration of significant historical figures who have played key roles in France-Wales relations, such as political leaders, writers, artists, and scholars. They analyze their contributions to diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and historical narratives that connect both nations.

Literature and Arts

• Prominent Authors: They study influential German writers such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Franz Kafka, and Günter Grass. Analysis focuses on their literary styles, thematic explorations (e.g., existentialism, societal critique), and enduring impact on global literature.

• Art and Music Movements: The module examines German expressionism, Bauhaus design principles, and the contributions of classical composers like Ludwig van Beethoven and Richard Wagner. Students explore how these movements influenced art, architecture, and music globally.

• Film Industry: Analysis spans from early German cinema, including expressionist films like "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari," to contemporary filmmakers such as Werner Herzog and Fatih Akin. Themes of identity, history, and social commentary are explored through German cinema.

Political and Economic Interactions: 

• Political Landscape: Students examine Germany's federal parliamentary democracy, political parties, and electoral processes. They explore the roles of institutions like the Bundestag and the Chancellor in policymaking and governance.

• International Relations: Study focuses on Germany's role within the European Union (EU), NATO, and its diplomatic relations with global partners. Themes include Germany's commitment to European integration, its role in global security, and multilateral diplomacy.

• Economic Influence: Analysis covers Germany's economic strengths in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, engineering, and renewable energy. Students explore Germany's export-oriented economy, technological innovation, and contributions to global economic stability.

Contemporary Issues and Global Impact

• Social Challenges: Examination includes topics like immigration, multiculturalism, integration policies, and demographic shifts. Students analyze Germany's responses to these challenges, exploring societal debates and policy initiatives.

• Innovations and Sustainability: Analysis focuses on Germany's leadership in environmental sustainability, digitalization, and innovations in science and technology. Examples include Germany's renewable energy transition (Energiewende) and advancements in green technologies.

• Humanitarian Efforts: Consideration of Germany's role in global humanitarian aid, peacekeeping missions, and contributions to international organizations like the United Nations. Students study Germany's commitment to global development goals and humanitarian assistance.

Language and Communication

• Language Skills: Students practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing German, focusing on vocabulary, grammar, and idiomatic expressions. Authentic texts, media sources, and interactive activities enhance language acquisition.

• Cultural Context: Exploration of language use in different contexts, including formal settings, media discourse, and interpersonal communication. Students learn to navigate cultural nuances and understand perspectives within German-speaking communities.

• Intercultural Competence: Development of skills to engage in meaningful dialogue, appreciate cultural diversity, and collaborate effectively across cultural boundaries. Discussions, debates, and presentations focus on topics relevant to Wales-Germany relations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the "Wales and the World – Areas of Interest" module within the WJEC French curriculum offers students a rich and multifaceted exploration of France's cultural, historical, political, economic, and linguistic dimensions. Through the comparative study of traditions, cuisine, societal values, and historical events between Wales and France, students gain profound insights into how these nations have evolved over time while influencing each other's cultural landscapes. This interdisciplinary approach not only deepens students' understanding of French culture and society but also fosters critical thinking skills by examining the complexities of global interactions and historical narratives that have shaped contemporary France. Moreover, the module's emphasis on language proficiency and intercultural competence equips students with essential tools for effective communication and collaboration in diverse cultural contexts, preparing them to engage as global citizens in an interconnected world.

By engaging with diverse topics ranging from literature and arts to contemporary issues and global impact, students are encouraged to appreciate the interconnectedness of nations, the importance of cultural exchange, and the shared challenges and aspirations that shape our global community. Through this comprehensive exploration, the WJEC French curriculum not only enhances students' academic knowledge but also cultivates empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and a nuanced appreciation for the richness of French culture and its global significance. Thus, the module serves as a gateway for students to develop a holistic perspective on France's role in the world and its enduring connections with Wales, empowering them to navigate and contribute meaningfully to our increasingly interconnected global society.