Return to French (upper intermediate)

What is the course about?

This course aims to take students to A-level/Delf B2 standard by introducing new structures and vocabulary. It will give students the means to communicate in a variety of ways and for a range of purposes with a strong emphasis on speaking and listening. Students will develop their ability to organise their thoughts effectively in both speech and writing so that they can present a point of view in a coherent and persuasive manner.

This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

The course is designed to help student develop their knowledge and understanding of some issues presented in a French-speaking context such as the role and influence of the media, use and misuse of the environment, and focuses upon the major contemporary issues in France and the French-speaking world.

The course offers revision and consolidation of major areas of grammar (tenses, relative pronouns,agreement of adjectives, negation, subject and object pronouns, prepositions, demonstratives, comparison, probability, purpose); presents and practices some important language functions (asking for agreement, stating a problem,etc); creates opportunities for students to collect, practise and use key items of vocabulary relating to each topic studied; concentrates, at the discourse level, on means which permit effective use of French in narration, argument, discussion or debate.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- understand some important contemporary issues as seen through French eyes
- make effective use of authentic printed and recorded material
- use French language to find out information and express opinions, to discuss, argue, and debate
- produce essays, articles, and reports.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Students should have a good intermediate level of French (studied at least to AS or A2 level in the past) and have a good grasp of grammatical structures and vocabulary. Level assesment before enrolling highly recommended. Please contact languages for advice on languages@citylit.ac.uk

It is also essential that you have knowledge of more complex grammar terms (e.g. the subjunctive, the conditional, direct and indirect speech, pronouns).

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Our courses are characterised by spoken interaction and communication. Typical activities include pair work, group work, role plays and games. A range of resources will be used to support your learning including presentations, hand-outs, and audio-visual material. Homework is highly recommended to consolidate learning.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Grammar book: Help Yourself to Advanced French Grammar (Longman, last edition) and a bilingual dictionary. .

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Revisit your upper intermediate French: revision & consolidation – Module 2. If you are unsure about what to do next, please ask your tutor for advice. Please enrol as soon as you can as places cannot be guaranteed.