Introductory French: Language, History, and Culture

  • Time & Tuition:
    • TBA
    • TBA per month (10 months, August through May)
  • Location: Signal Mountain, Tennessee
  • Credit: 1 full credit in foreign language
  • Grades: 8th grade strong readers and up
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Description: Winston Churchill said of his education in foreign languages, “Perhaps if I had been introduced to the ancients through their history and customs, instead of through their grammar and syntax, I might have had a better record.” This course aims to remedy the deficiency Churchill pointed out by guiding students not merely in speaking French but in understanding France’s incredible culture. Welcome to the language of the land of Les Miserables, Napoleon, St. Louis, the French Resistance, Monet, Debussy, Charlemagne, the great cathedrals, and some of the world’s greatest cuisine! Each week, students will learn one key cultural or historical context, then study and memorize between 10-15 words and one grammar point. Classes focus on thorough practice of the material incorporating correct pronunciation, simple conversations and written exercises, and Latin roots. Homework involves daily practice of previous content.
  • Assessment: Students take one, one-page quiz in class each week. At the conclusion of each semester, students participate in Defense Day by reading and translating a brief paragraph they have written using the material they have learned during the semester.
  • Books Needed – FINAL LIST OF REQUIRED TEXTS WILL BE POSTED SHORTLY – PLEASE CHECK BACK! Books will be the same as or similar to those below: (Hard copies are required; recommended editions/translations are listed below)
    • First Start French I Student Workbook – from Memoria Press (ISBN: 9781930953659)
    • Larousse French-English dictionary – Recommended: concise edition (ISBN: ‎ 978203570002)
    • French-English Bible – Recommended: Zondervan ISBN: 9780310450023
    • 300+ index cards and an index card box
    • Pens and/or fine-tip markers in multiple colors
    • OPTIONAL: Jacqueline Morton’s English Grammar for Students of French – (ISBN: 9780934034425)