French Summer School in Biarritz: Teaching
Course objectives and methodology
The French language courses are academically demanding, and aimed at teenagers who seriously want to improve their French language skills. The French language college staff are aware that the students are on holiday and will do all they can to help students enjoy their French experience, both in and outside the classroom.
The primary focus is on developing confidence and aptitude in spoken French, in communicative situations and the courses offer a cultural approach to exploring and improving linguistic proficiency (written and oral expression / written and oral comprehension / interpersonal communication) communicative methods combining individual development and group dynamics (group work, role plays, etc.) according to student level.
The programmes cover all the different elements of the French language. Students are taught a wide range of language learning tools; covering speaking, reading, writing and listening skills according to their current French language level. The main focus of the course is always oral communication and the teachers are all university educated, native speakers. Students are always encouraged to participate actively in class and to put their new found French skills into practice.
Across all language levels:
to practice linguistic skills (written expression, “essay planning”, oral / written comprehension, oral / interactive communication)
to revise grammar and build vocabulary
communicative methods, role play and use of real documents
For Leaving Cert & A level Exam classes:
to prepare for the Leaving Certificate / A’ level French examinations (or other European equivalents)
to train for specific examinations (listening activities, presenting a theme, writing a letter, narrative or summary, etc.)
