This module builds upon the linguistic knowledge acquired at A-Level stage or equivalent. The emphasis is on progressive language learning, reflected through continuous assessment of learning. It integrates the study of a number of key cultural issues with a deepening study of the structures, vocabulary and sounds of the language. Students will manipulate information from spoken and written texts in the French Language. Students will develop their competencies in using language-learning technologies to support their linguistic progress. Study focuses on the four major language skills – reading, writing, speaking and listening – through online activities and written work, use of video and audio material, and interaction with native speakers (including Erasmus students hosted by the department).

1. Understand the principles of learning a foreign language intensively and organise their learning with guidance with the tutor
2. Read, understand and speak the French language to at least the level of B1 Common European Framework
3. Engage confidently and with appropriate grammatical correctness and spontaneity in everyday conversation in the French language
4. Write coherent texts in a range of registers on a range of topics with appropriate grammatical accuracy
5. Extract data and ideas from a range of authentic written texts
6. Have extended and refined vocabulary and skills by engaging with the Independent Learning Portfolio
7. Be able to engage with appropriate language learning technologies
8. To be able to identify, assess, and make good use of appropriate reference materials (e.g. dictionaries; online resources; self-study tool)
9. Collaborate with peers and contribute to online discussion boards in French on topics and themes explored in the learning environment.

The module will be taught through a blend of live online classes and guided, interactive online tasks and activities, designed to fulfil the learning outcomes. These will be delivered remotely, and on-campus if the University deems it safe and practicable.

Independent Learning: You will be expected to spend a significant amount of time studyingand participating in individual and collaborative activities outside the live sessions. Materials will be provided on Learning Central which will help you develop your expertise as an independent language learner. You will be asked to consolidate your language learning by learning vocabulary and linguistic structures, and by reading, watching and/or listening to material in French. You will also be expected to prepare and complete exercises and activities online, to complete written, listening and oral tasks and to engage with tutors and peers through discussion boards and forums. Over the course of the year you will begin to acquire a repertoire of effective language learning strategies

​Students will develop:

1. Subject-specific language skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) in the French language at the appropriate level
2. The ability to use language creatively and precisely for a range of purposes and audiences
3. The abilities to extract and synthesize key information from written, spoken and other sources
4. A greater awareness of how languages (including the mother tongue) function
5. The skills to be effective, independent  and self-aware Iearners, including active reflection on learning processes and preferences so as to independently develop appropriate strategies and linguistic skills to ensure progression
6. The ability to work creatively and flexibly with others as part of a team
7. Skills in intercultural awareness, understanding and competence, including a critical understanding of other cultures and practice other than one’s own
8. Enhanced skills in effective communication, presentation and interaction- both in an online environment and face to face.
9. Enhanced digital literacy skills
10. The ability to actively participate in online group discussions with an online community of learners through chats, discussion boards or forums

The method(s) of assessing the learning outcomes for this module are set out in the Assessment Table, which also contains the weightings of each assessment component.

Reassessment

You may be required to resit one or more of the assessments in this module if you fail the module. The Examination Board will advise you which assessments you need to resit during the August resit period. Resit assessments that are not supported by extenuating circumstances will be capped at the pass mark applicable to your programme.

The course will focus on:

Consolidating and building on knowledge of grammar points already studied

Developing more complex sentence structures

Developing the range of vocabulary relevant to contemporary society, as specified in the European Common Framework of Reference, level B1

Developing a sense of different registers

Developing an awareness of the cultural contexts of French culture

Making the most of independent learning and learning technologies

Reading List (core):

Grammar coursebook: Jubb, Margaret (2007), Upgrade your French, 2^nd edition, 2007

One novel: Bertini, J (2009) Les Misérables adaptation du roman de Victor Hugo (book and 2 CDs)

Students are also expected to engage with the materials and resources included in the Independent Learning Portfolios on Learning Central.

Recommended reading:

Grammar books:

• Morton, J. English Grammar for students of French, 7^th edition, 2013

(Students with a weak understanding of grammar should find this book very useful: it explains the grammatical terms which you find in your French textbook and shows you how they relate to English grammar)

• Vercollier, A et al. (2004) Difficultés expliquées du français… for English Speakers, CLE international

(More advanced level. All grammar explained in French)

Recommended Online Dictionary: http://www.wordreference.com/

Students are also expected to engage with the materials and resources included in the Independent Learning Portfolios on Learning Central.