Frequently Asked Questions

Will my lowest exam grade be dropped? 

Yes, your lowest exam from the first four exams of the semester will be dropped. The last exam of the semester cannot be dropped. 

Why do I have to take French?

Foreign language is a UIC requirement: French is not! You made the decision to take French rather than any other language, so enjoy this opportunity to follow up on your personal interest in French and Francophone language and culture.

What will I get out of this class if it's not my major?

French classes are designed to help you develop skills that will help you succeed at UIC and get a good job after graduation!

• public speaking

• writing a well-crafted essay

• successful test-taking

• time management

• teamwork

• critical thinking

• reading effectively

• cultural understanding

• problem-solving

• tech literacy

Where can I get help?

Visit your instructor's student drop-in hours (or make an appointment), email your instructor, and take advantage of FREE French tutoring hours. The tutoring schedule is posted here and on your class Blackboard site. Check the Student Resources section of this syllabus or button on your class Blackboard site for more info about tutoring, advising, counseling, and fun!

I just want to do grammar—why do I have to learn about culture (with readings, video, and film)?

“Just grammar” only happens in a classroom. Learning French means working with language (“grammar”) in context, and beginning to understand something about French/Francophone cultures. Want to communicate with a French-speaker? You need to understand her culture!

Can we do more pronunciation in class?

Our goal is communication, so if you can make yourself understood (communicate your idea), your pronunciation is fine. The best way to work on pronunciation is to work with the Collage audio sections. Expect to listen at least 2-3 times to each exercise.

Is it okay to miss class, leave class early, arrive late?

That’s up to you and your priorities: unless your absence is excused, it will lower your grade. (See the Attendance section for details.)

Is late homework accepted?

Not unless you have an excused absence or a documented technical problem. Homework is part of your preparation for class, and will receive a zero if it is not turned in during class or online on the day it is due. See the Assignment Calendar for due dates.

Can I use my computer/phone/tablet in class?

You may use a device to access the materials needed for class. No cell phones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices may be used in class EXCEPT the device you are using to access the materials for this online class. If you are reading/sending text messages or checking email during class, you are not paying attention, and this will be reflected in your participation grade. (See the Classroom Basic Rules page for more classroom rules.)

What will happen if I don’t read and prepare the assigned material before class?

Reading and preparing the assigned materials helps you succeed in class. You'll understand more and your participation grade will be better. (See the Participation section for more information.)
If you have any questions about the homework, please contact your instructor.

Will you answer my email immediately?

Most instructors check email between 9-5 Monday through Friday. Ask your instructor for their email policy.

Can I use a computer translator? / My friend speaks French. Can she help me on my blogs, and other homework?

No. Any work you turn in for a grade must be 100% your own. Turning in work done by someone else or by a computer program is cheating. Cheating incidents will be reported to the Dean of Students. See the information on Academic Dishonesty.

I want to take more French classes. Where can I find more information?

You can find out more about French classes and events at UIC below or on the French and Francophone Studies department website.

I want to practice my French. Where can I do that?

There is a weekly French Conversation Hour in Grant Hall. Students of all levels are always welcome to join us for FREE coffee, cookies, and conversation! French Conversation Hour can also count as a make-up homework assignment (with instructor approval). See the make-up Homework section of this syllabus for details.

Why is online homework due at 9am?

You can do the homework anytime you'd like. You don't have to wait until the morning it is due. For example, if something is due at 9am on Wednesday, you can do it at 10am on Tuesday or at 11pm on Tuesday (or anytime before 9am on Wednesday). Homework is due before class because we will review the materials you studied in class on the day they are due.

What does it mean when I hear that my Instructor is a Mandated Reporter?

Title IX: Federal law, specifically Title IX, and University policy on Discrimination, Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct require that all faculty members serve as mandated reporters of incidents involving sexual violence/harassment. Disclosures made to faculty or TAs about sexual or gender-based harassment, sexual assault, rape, dating violence, domestic violence and/or stalking on or off campus are forwarded to the Title IX Coordinator. 

The Coordinator will contact you regarding your rights, the option to request an investigation, interim safety measures, and/or academic accommodations. Participation in any process is always voluntary. 

If you want a confidential place to disclose, contact the Campus Advocacy Network at (312) 413-8206 or can-appointment@uic.edu or the Counseling Center (312) 996-3490 for support. More information here.