This introduction covers Dictation: The Method within Dictation method: three plays, hold, write for GCSE French. Revise Dictation method: three plays, hold, write in Dictation Technique for GCSE French with 11 exam-style questions and 10 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 1 of 4 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
🎧 Dictation: The Method
The dictation section is unique to AQA 8652 Paper 1 (Listening) and is new for first exams 2026 — many students underestimate it. You hear a short French paragraph read at dictation speed, and you must write it down accurately, including correct spelling, accents, and agreement. Every error costs marks, so a systematic method is essential from day one of practice.
Practice questions for Dictation method: three plays, hold, write
How many times is the dictation passage played in the AQA 8652 exam?
What should you do during the FIRST play of the dictation?
Quick recall flashcards
Do accents matter in dictation?
Yes — missing or wrong accents lose marks on Grid B. Key pairs: a/à, ou/où, sur/sûr, du/dû, la/là. The accent changes meaning entirely. Always check accents on your third listening.
How is the dictation broken up?
The passage is read in short phrases with pauses between them. Use the pauses to write. Don't try to hold the whole sentence — focus on one phrase at a time.