LA1PF1-IWLP French 1

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:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: FR1L3 Advanced French Language I FR1L2 Intermediate French Language FR2L4 Advanced French Language II FR3L6 Advanced French Language III LA1PF2 IWLP French 2 LA1PF3 IWLP French 3 LA1PF4 IWLP French 4 FR3LMB French Language for Management & Business II FR3L6C Advanced French Language III FR1L1 Beginners French Language
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Mr Bertrand Jacquier
Email: b.jacquier@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module is intended for students with little or no knowledge of French. On successful completion of the course students will have achieved CEF (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) Level A1/A1+.

This module aims to build on a previously acquired basic knowledge of French. 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. The University of Reading allows students from any year to take this module. At this level of study, students identify and use relevant understanding, methods, and skills to address problems that are well defined, but complex and non-routine. In language learning this may entail:  

• practising the language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking to, in order to communicate within defined situations; 


• acquiring knowledge of grammar and vocabulary;  


• developing strategies for learning and independent learning skills, thus exercising autonomy and judgement;  


• developing tools to be able to respond to unexpected occurrences; 


• gaining 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 exempt 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 enable students to: 

•  communicate in French in straightforward, everyday situations in a French-speaking country; 


•  build on and expand their existing competence in basic French grammar and vocabulary to communicate and understand in a wider range of situations than at Stage 1; 


•  develop their knowledge of French-speaking countries and people; 


•  develop their understanding of language learning strategies; 


•  develop strategies for coping with unpractised linguistic, social and cultural situations. 

Assessable learning outcomes:

Upon successful completion 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; 


• Use a range ofFrench vocabulary as required within the topics covered,? and further improve skills in using sources of vocabulary; 


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


• Recognise and apply basic grammatical structures in both speaking and writing.? 


• Use self-reflection, develop awareness and strategies to work independently and maintain a levelof interest and motivation for language learning.  

Additional outcomes:

Students will:  

• be involved in regular group activities?such as?role playing and gain experience in simple oral presentations and joint activities;


• make progress through developing skills of self-study and application; 


• develop an awareness of and sensitivity to a foreign culture. 

Outline content:

Students will learn:

• to give, request and understand personal information;


• to express and understand simple opinions;


• forms of address, greeting and leave-taking;


• to make simple arrangements and transactions on a practical level.

Global context:

IWLP language modules provide students with opportunities for intercultural learning, increased intercultural awareness and an appreciation of diversity which enable learners to make connections between their immediate context and the global context.

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:

Final written exam (Reading and Writing) 40% (2 hours).

The examination for this module will require a narrowly defined time window and is likely to be held in a dedicated exam venue.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Autumn term week 11: Multi-part Portfolio 15%

Spring term week 10: Multi-part Portfolio 15%

Summer term week 1-3: Oral exam 30% (maximum 20 minutes)

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 ongoing feedback is provided.?An additional opportunity for feedback with self-reflection and feedforward is provided at the end of the Autumn Term, through a test and other tasks to be included in the Portfolio. 

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):

1. Required text books: students are required to buy the recommended course book at a cost of between £25-£30


2. Specialist equipment or materials:


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:


4. Printing and binding:


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification:


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 30 March 2023