The course aims to encourage candidates to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of Spanish culture and society as well as developing the ability to understand, speak and write Spanish. The two-year course comprises three components which cover the skills of speaking, reading, listening, translation and writing; these skills are built upon those acquired and practised at GCSE. Topics covered are: Social issues and trends – Aspects of Hispanic society (modern and traditional values, cyberspace, and equal rights) and Multiculturalism in Hispanic society (immigration, racism, and integration); and Political and artistic culture – Artistic culture in the Hispanic world (modern day idols; Spanish regional identity; and cultural heritage) and Aspects of political life in the Hispanic world (today's youth, tomorrow's citizens; monarchies and dictatorships; and popular movements).