LA1PF2-IWLP French 2

Module Provider: Languages and Cultures
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: LA1PF1 or equivalent
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: LA1PF3 IWLP French 3 and FR1L3 Advanced French Language I and FR1L2 Intermediate French Language and FR2L4 Advanced French Language II and FR3L6 Advanced French Language III and FR3LMB French Language for Management & Business II and FR3L6C Advanced French Language III and FR1L1 Beginners French Language and LA1PF1 IWLP French 1 and LA1PF4 IWLP French 4
Current from: 2020/1

Email: a.nobio@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module is intended for students with an entry level of CEF (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A1 or equivalent. On successful completion of the module students will have achieved CEF A2/A2+ within a defined range of topics.

This module aims to build on a previously acquired basic knowledge of French, concentrating on its communicative use in everyday situations. It will develop the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.

This module is taught at level 4 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. Reading University allows students from any year to take this module. Students will identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to address problems that are well defined but complex and non- routine. In language learning this means acquiring knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, developing strategies for learning and practising the language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, in order to communicate within defined situations while developing tools to enable students to respond to unexpected events. Students will exercise autonomy and judgement by developing independent learning skills. They will gain understanding of different perspectives and cultural differences in approaching a variety of situations.

Support is given and adjustments are made for students with disabilities. However, IWLP language modules are communicative in nature and students are required to work in small groups.  Also, students should be aware that spelling, grammar and sentence structure are assessed. In this respect the IWLP assessment is exempted from the University’s requirement to take specific learning difficulties into account when marking.  For queries, contact iwlp@reading.ac.uk

Aims:
.This module aims to provide students with:-
- the ability to cope in straightforward, everyday situations in a French-speaking country;
- the development of their knowledge of French-speaking countries and people;
- the development of strategies for coping with unpractised linguistic, social and cultural situations.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students will be able to:

• Communicate in French by speaking at a fairly simple level about a selection of defined everyday topics;

• Communicate in French in writing about a selection of defined everyday topics and within a defined range of genres;

• Read and understand texts on a variety of everyday topics including obtaining specific details;

• Recognise and use a range of French vocabulary as req uired within the topics covered, and further improve skills in using dictionaries and online sources of vocabulary;

• Understand a variety of passages, conversations and announcements when spoken by sympathetic native- and non-native speakers of French;

• Achieve competence in the use of the most important grammatical structures of the language for their level in both speaking and writing.

Additional outcomes:

Students will be involved in regular group activities and pair work and will gain experience in simple oral presentations and joint activities. They will make progress through developing skills of self-study and application and will develop an awareness of and sensitivity to a foreign culture.

Outline content:
Students will learn:-
- to discuss topics of personal interest;
- to express and justify simple opinions orally and in writing;
- to make simple arrangements and transactions in a social and practical context;
- to give simple accounts of events using past, present and future tenses
- to develop greater fluency and complexity of expression.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module provides a systematic approach to acquiring essential grammar structures in a communicative context. Teaching methods are based on interactive language development tasks, such as group work and pair work, and include the study of short texts, oral development work and listening comprehension exercises. Learning activities are supported by various media such as audio and, where appropriate, computer software. The module is taught as far as possible in the target language. 

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summer term: Final Written exam (Reading and Writing) – 40% (2 hours)

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Autumn term week 10 – Foundation test 15% (1 hour)

Spring term week 11 – In-class test – Listening 15% (1 hour)

Summer term week 1-3 – Oral exam – 30% (20 minutes per pair)

Formative assessment methods:

In order to consolidate and develop their language learning, students are encouraged to complete regular tasks – in class and outside – on which feedback is provided.

Penalties for late submission:

Assessment requirements for a pass:
40% overall for UG students, 50% overall for PGT students

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-sit in August/September examinations period on the basis of examination only (relative percentages: oral examination 40%, written paper 60%)

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

students are required to buy the recommended course book, at a cost of around £25-£30.

Last updated: 8 January 2021