The students then revise their drafts and are responsible for correcting certain grammar and spelling mistakes on their own. Students appreciate the feedback and learn how to edit their own papers. Many students write on the course evaluations that they made great improvement in writing. Furthermore, students remark that they find the specific writing assignments interesting and challenging, be they creative or analytical. They often remember the skill-building techniques long after the classroom activity.
Students also find analytic discussion of the texts engaging and thought-provoking.
The majority of students feel they benefit from the various technologies I bring to the classroom. Students consistently enjoy video activities which allow them to see and hear native French speakers, while glimpsing a picture of another culture. Computerized grammar exercises give instant feedback and let each student work at his or her own pace. Students also enjoyed activities which guided their viewing of French language web sites and exposed them to current news, trends and issues in the francophone world.