Brief description

This module consists of two weekly classes (see 1 and 2 below), and one fortnightly class (see 3 below). The module is "thin", that is, it will only be examined at the end of the second semester. There will be no formal examination at the end of the first semester in either the written language or in oral/aural work. Needless to say, assessed work submitted during both semesters will go towards the mark for the module.

1. The first weekly hour, and those written assignments which derive from it, will be devoted to reading, writing and listening in French. The basis will be a course book, 'French Grammar in Context', M. Jubb and A. Rouxeville. Work during and for this hour will be primarily grammatical translation into French, essential essay-writing skills, and reading comprehension. The aim is to train you in the difficult task of translating accurately a range of difficult English structures into the target language; to present a well-argued case; to encourage you to retrieve and synthesize information economically. emphasis is placed on your being able to work efficiently in the target language by developing skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking French. Some classes may be conducted in French, and you will be expected to participate in French,

2. The second weekly hour is a conversation class with a native-speaker. You will be expected to prepare material for these classes and your success in them depends very much on your active participation.

3. The fortnightly hour will be devoted to contemporary aspects of France and French society studied through the audio-visual medium. Students will watch a documentary-style programme one week, before being split into smaller groups for follow-up language analysis and discussion of issues relevant to what has been shown. Some of the continuous assessment work will be based on group presentations in French.

Written work will be set regularly, and must be handed in on time: your tutor, like you, works to a demanding timetable and will not be able to accommodate late submission of work. Marks for assessed work will go towards your degree result, and failure to hand in work as required will rapidly reduce your overall marks on the module.

Learning outcomes

- identify your own improvement in French vocabulary and grammatical knowledge in written - and spoken language
- differentiate between major stylistic levels of French
- recognise and understand different linguistic registers in French
- translate selected French passages showing idiomatic, authentic style and grammatical usage
- present independently prepared material in spoken or written French
- discuss and debate topical issues in French
- summarise in your own words selected pieces of written or spoken French
- give your own insights into contemporary French life and culture
- take part in role-plays in French
- enter into conversation in French with confidence in your ability to express youself

Language modules have, as an integral part of their structure, regular homework assignments and class tests as well as end of year examinations. All assessment is designed to measure your progress against learning outcomes at the appropriate level.

Reading Lists