Objectives.
FR127 is a third-semester college course designed to extend your French language skills in reading and writing, and in speaking and oral comprehension.

Coursework
Reading. Our reading will be centered on the theme, "Les voyages forment la jeunesse," as found in poetry and prose by authors from Francophone Africa, France, and the French Antilles. We shall conduct guided research on the Web to develop basic knowledge about the culture of various Francophone countries. You will also keep a reading notebook that will be peer edited and also evaluated by your instructor.

Grammar. The first part of the course will begin will a review of specific grammar points in order to assure that all students start from the same basis. We shall work on grammar throughout the semester primarily as an aid to reading comprehension and to more effective written and oral expression. You are to prepare all assigned exercises before coming to class. Expect weekly quizzes on grammar points reviewed.

Oral Expression and Exposés.
It is expected that you will speak French in class with both your professor and your classmates. Practice using the "expressions utiles pour la classe"!

Each student will prepare an oral presentation or exposé in class (5 minutes in length maximum, and without notes). The use of visual aids is suggested. To prepare the exposé, you shall conduct research on the Internet and discuss your research and the topic of your presentation with your professor on an individual basis. Suggested themes for the exposés include any of the authors and assigned readings for the course, and more broadly, La France et les DOM (départements d'outre mer), La France et L'Afrique, and La Francophonie. Consult the course syllabus for dates of presentation.

Writing. During the semester you will prepare several written assignments, according to the instructions of your instructor.

Grading:
1) Participation active 10%
2) Interrogations écrites 10%
3) Carnet de lecture 15%
4) Devoirs écrits 15%
5) Examen de mi-semestre 20%
6) Exposé 10%
7) Examen final 20%

Please be aware that late work will not be accepted. In the case of a serious illness that requires you to be hospitalized, please keep me informed and contact me about assigned work.

General Remarks:
A. Language background. For some of you, working exclusively in the French language may at first represent a challenge, but this initial difficulty will soon be overcome if you keep up with your work and adopt a positive attitude aimed at improving all your skills. Learning to master the skills of a foreign language is a quantitative process: the more you work at it, the better the results.

B. Attendance.
1) Please be punctual in order to neither disrupt the class nor miss essential points covered.
2) Excessive tardiness will naturally have a negative impact on your grade. See the College Catalogue for Colby's statement on attendance.

C. Miscelleaneous. Your instructor will give you details regarding La Table Française (Mondays 5:30-7 p.m. in the Camp Room); the Language Resource Center; tutors in French, including regularly scheduled tutorials with the language assistant from France; and the French Club.