world languages

French Iv

Prerequisites: French III or approval by the Department Chair

French IV is offered to students who have demonstrated continued excellence and interest in the study of French. French is used almost exclusively as a means of communication to help students transition into a college-level environment with greater ease and to prepare them for progression into the AP French Language & Culture course the following year. Students complete a thorough review of complex grammatical structures, idiomatic expressions and vocabulary as well as explore a variety of historical, political, literary and cultural movements in Francophone countries around the world. A college-level text is used, supplemented by a variety of web-based materials and authentic resources to support and guide progress. Formal and informal writing, literary analysis, organized debates, projects and conversational exchange (both prepared and spontaneous) are many of the activities used to engage students and help them to develop a greater proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing.

AP FRENCH LANGUAGE & CULTURE

Prerequisites: See pages 6, 8

Centered around six overarching themes established by the College Board, the AP French Language & Culture course is designed to challenge the advanced French student to reach beyond traditional grammar and vocabulary acquisition to apply presentational, interpretive and interpersonal skills to a real-world context. Through the exclusive use of authentic resources, students broaden their understanding of the French-speaking world through the lens of native-born speakers. Through exposure to the many products, practices and perspectives that make each culture unique, students are challenged to think critically as they work to compare and contrast their own native cultures to those corresponding to Francophone countries worldwide.

The course is designed in such a way to use various literary and cinematic works to allow students to develop the three types of communication while exploring the six cultural themes. The academic year is divided into units based upon major works of literature or collections of more modern excerpts. Within each unit, students work to improve their competency through formal and informal reading, writing and listening activities.

Underclassmen are required to take the AP exam. Seniors are required to take the exam but may apply for an exemption in consultation with the teacher and the College Counseling Office.