FRLA 8233A is designed to expand and improve students’ reading and oral language skills based on accessible, conversational topics.

Seven broad unit themes: arts and entertainment, environment, sports, cuisine, politics/current events, education/careers and travel – will provide material for reading and discussion.

We will draw from a variety of French language sources such as news articles, blogs, film excerpts, interviews and other material to access authentic written and audiovisual narratives.

Along with thematic reading, listening, discussion and class activities, students will interact with guest speakers and participate in several local field trips. Additionally, on a bi-weekly basis, students will write and present a short reflection paper based on the current topic.

Students will have a choice of several culminating interactive projects including a simulated radio show, an interview, a debate or a PowerPoint/digital storytelling presentation.

Through participation in this class, students will:

? Gain fluency in oral reading and verbal expression; improve pronunciation

? Integrate grammatical concepts into spoken language

? Show improvement in both aural and reading comprehension

? Expand topic-related vocabulary

? Improve writing skills