world languages

French I

No prerequisite. Open to students in grades 9 through 12.

French I emphasizes an integrated approach and a balanced development of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Instruction at the first level stresses the fundamentals of French through contextual presentation of theme-based vocabulary, grammar and verb conjugations. The textbook we use exposes students to life in contemporary France and Francophone countries. Various Internet sites, music, magazines, movies, cookbooks, comic strips and children’s stories are used to facilitate the development of elementary skills by which students can listen and read in the target language. French I is designed to highlight proficiency in communication by giving students meaningful, everyday expressions they can use immediately in real-life situations.

French Ii

Prerequisites: French I or approval by the Department Chair

The second level of French builds upon the fundamental skills learned in French I. Students study advanced grammar and idiomatic structures as well as read and write passages of increased length and difficulty. The textbook and supplementary web-based materials used in this class enhance students’ cultural knowledge of real-life situations in contemporary France and Francophone countries. French II is designed to expand proficiency in communication, give students meaningful expressions they can use immediately in everyday situations and prepare them to communicate in both the spoken and written form at an intermediate level.

French Iii

Prerequisites: French II or approval by the Department Chair

The third level of instruction is designed to teach further advanced aspects of grammar as well as to polish skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Through the use of a college-level textbook and corresponding web-based materials, students explore the French language through the lens of a native speaker as they are exposed to a wide variety of authentic resources and are challenged to interpret and synthesize ideas in multiple ways. Overall, the lessons learned in French III add sophistication and reallife context to students’ knowledge of modern French culture, and teach them to write well-organized and substantive essays, to communicate effectively in a conversation, and to become proficient readers of French.