More than 220 million people speak French on five continents. The number of French speakers has tripled over the last fifty years. Learning French can create study opportunities at renowned French universities and business schools, ranked highly in Europe. Also, students with a good knowledge of French are eligible for French government grants to enroll in graduate courses. Learning French can also be very useful for employment in the hotel industry, fashion, the visual arts, and theatre anywhere in the world as French is the most spoken language in these sectors. The French-speaking world now accounts for over 15% of the world’s wealth and Canada is one of the largest trading partners with the U.S.
FRENCH I - WL1013
Grades 8 - 12 Full-Year 1 Credit
In this course, students will be introduced to the French language and culture. Students will acquire the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) at a beginning level. Basic verb structures and grammar will be presented, and vocabulary dealing with everyday subjects will be mastered. Students will demonstrate correct pronunciation and begin to acquire knowledge of the cultures of French- speaking regions of the world.
FRENCH II - WL1023
Grades 9 - 12 Full-Year 1 Credit
Students will continue to develop the four language skills beyond the basic level. Active vocabulary will be increased throughout the year. All students will be required to use French to communicate in the classroom at a basic level. Students will expand knowledge of grammatical skills acquired at the beginning level. Students will have increased their understanding of Francophone culture upon completion of this course.
FRENCH III - WL1033
Grades 9 - 12 Full-Year 1 Credit In this course, students will review the concepts mastered in the previous level and learn new grammatical structures and vocabulary. As much as possible, French will be the language of the classroom. Students will be required to write in a variety of formats (EG short summaries, dialogues and biographical sketches) in French as well as read with authentic French pronunciation. Regular written homework, quizzes and tests will be required of all students. Students will acquire knowledge of Francophone culture, civilization and geography beyond the first and second level.
FRENCH IV - WL1043
Grades 9 - 12 Full-Year 1 Credit
This course will be conducted almost entirely in French; and at this level, the student, having mastered the basics, will learn more advanced, sophisticated grammar. The student will acquire additional active and passive vocabulary, be able to write longer compositions with fewer errors and be able to converse and respond with ease. Students will read French literature to improve their reading comprehension skills and to further their understanding of Francophone history and culture.
FRENCH V - WL1053
Grade 9 - 12 Full-Year 1 Credit
This course will enable students to achieve a level of French at which they can communicate both in speaking and writing at a near native proficiency. A "NO" English policy will be strictly enforced. Students will review the grammar they have mastered as well as acquire some of the more refined rules of the language. Literature of a complex nature will be read and analyzed. Students will expand upon their knowledge of Francophone history and culture.
AP French (Independent Study)
This Independent Study course is designed to prepare students for a rigorous review and preparation for the AP Exam in French. This course uses authentic materials and resources from francophone sources. Work outside of class consists of writing letters and essays, reading preparation, and solely using the target language. The five competencies of reading, writing, listening, speaking and culture are extensively covered. A prerequisite for this course is to have successfully completed French 4 and a willingness to observe the “French only” rule during class. A strong teacher recommendation is also required.