High School, World Languages (French)

French I

Students in French I begin to develop proficiency in listening and speaking the French language. Proper pronunciation is emphasized and students engage in simple conversations. There is extensive emphasis on vocabulary acquisition. Basic grammatical structures are learned and gradually, with the use of authentic materials, they develop the necessary skills for effective and accurate written communication. The culture and civilization of the French-speaking world is explored.

French II

All students who have successfully completed French 1 are eligible to take this course which is designed to reflect the main thrust of foreign language instruction: communication. This is effectuated by the continued concentration on the four areas of French language mastery: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The teaching of French II is thematic: vocabulary is introduced in manageable amounts and in meaningful contexts. In addition, one of the foremost goals of students enrolled in this course is to be able to function effectively with the spoken language and to hone their listening comprehension skills. The students further develop their knowledge of the culture and civilization of the French-speaking world.

French III

The students continue to develop the four basic language proficiencies in a communicative setting. Emphasis continues to be on the acquisition of an extensive active vocabulary that will enable them to communicate in a wide variety of real-life situations. French language skills are enhanced by written application and reading and writing abilities are polished.  Maximum communicative practice is afforded to students, with additional concentration on listening skills. French newspapers, short stories, and films are presented to stimulate discussion and reading comprehension.

French IV

The students enrolled in this course master topical vocabulary, grammar, idioms, and practical expressions on an advanced level. They discuss a variety of contemporary themes gathered from authentic materials, including novels, films, short stories, articles, and newspapers. Literary vocabulary is acquired. This course emphasizes aural comprehension and oral proficiency.