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CFLS1F21: FRENCH STAGE 2

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Current modules are subject to change in light of the ongoing disruption caused by Covid-19.

Type Open
Level 1
Credits 20
Availability Available in 2023/24
Module Cap None.
Location Durham
Department Centre for Foreign Language Study

Prerequisites

  • Successful completion of French Stage 1 or Grade B or above in GCSE French or an equivalent qualification, subject to decision by the module coordinator. No higher French language entry qualification permitted.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • Any Core Language Module offered by the School of Modern Languages and Cultures.

Aims

  • To consolidate and revise prior knowledge.
  • To develop reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in French.
  • To enable students to function effectively in a general social context.
  • To extend lexis and knowledge of grammar.
  • To develop basic essay writing skills.
  • To promote intercultural understanding.

Content

  • The first part of this module aims to consolidate and revise prior knowledge, which will involve a comprehensive review of basic language structures followed by the further study of key aspects of grammar.
  • Most functional and notional topics studied at this level will be determined by the main course book
  • Class materials will be supplemented by handouts and digital resources
  • Free role-plays and group discussion exercises will promote the basis for developing confidence, flexibility and fluency in conversations.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • On successful completion of this module learners will be able to:
  • demonstrate some knowledge and understanding of the main French linguistic principles, structures and registers;
  • demonstrate knowledge of some aspects of the French social, economic and political structures;
  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of some features of French culture and society gained through the study of cultural topics.

Subject-specific Skills:

  • On successful completion of the module learners will be able to:
  • write short essays in the target language related to both personal and social spheres, expressing and discussing views;
  • relate a series of events and take part in semi-structured discussion on French current affairs, customs and social issues;
  • apply a range of grammatical principles;
  • make effective use of references material such as grammars and dictionaries;
  • use a range of language learning techniques and skills by independently developing strategies to extend their lexis and knowledge of grammar.

Key Skills:

  • On successful completion of this module learners will be able to:
  • give a short class presentation in French;
  • write a short essay demonstrating the ability to organise ideas in a logical and coherent sequence in sustained prose;
  • communicate information, ideas and arguments both orally and in writing;
  • gather, process and reference information from a variety of paper, audio-visual and electronic resources;
  • use IT both as a means of communication and as an aid to learning;
  • deal effectively with a variety of situations whilst abroad.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • This module is delivered through seminar style classes.
  • Contact time will be used to introduce new material and provide the students with high quality target language input from the module tutor and multimedia sources.
  • In preparation for each session students will be expected to revise new material and complete formative language exercises.
  • The assessment scheme for this module is designed to test students' level of attainment in language production (speaking and writing) and reception (listening and reading).

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Seminars60three times per week1 hour60Yes
Preparation and Reading140 
Total 200 

Summative Assessment

Component: Reading, Writing and Language TasksComponent Weighting: 60%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Individual Project Assignment (Week 10)30No
Individual Project Assignment (Week 20)70Yes
Component: Oral and Listening AssessmentComponent Weighting: 40%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Group oral assessment (Weeks 21-22)20 minutes100Yes

Formative Assessment

Regular homework/assignments will be given to the students to practise and consolidate what they have done in class and to prepare the following session, some of which will be submitted and marked as formative assignments and regular feedback will be given to the students accordingly.

More information

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