By means of frequent written and oral drills, selected readings, and tape work, students increase their skill in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Cultural topics are introduced through occasional readings, slides, or films. By successfully completing this course, students cover all basic French grammatical structures. They read literary texts, enrich their vocabulary, and gain insight into French culture. Through discussion of the reading material and oral presentations, they can achieve greater ease in oral communication.
Students also develop their writing skills through written assignments and short essays.
Slide shows, French films, and plays help to expand their understanding of the country and its people. Selected readings differ each semester and are the focus of classroom discussions and of short essay writing. In addition, students continue to write essays and develop writing skills in the target language. Students are also expected to do limited research in the library and to apply this in class discussions and when writing. This course focuses on developing writing skills.