French grammar

Aims

Aims

Through completion of the course students should be able to demonstrate:

• An increased understanding of the structures of the French language
• The ability to analyse grammatical aspects, understand and produce them in context

Prerequisites

Prerequisites

Students must have successfully completed:

•  A-level French, grade A or B, or equivalent.

Programme

Programme

Contact hours

The module lasts the whole year, with teaching continuing until Week 4 of the summer term. There are two hours of contact time per week. There is also an hour dedicated to independent study where students are expected to work on their grammar skills through the course delivered on the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). 

Teaching programme

All the lessons are conducted as seminars in order to encourage discussion and interaction.  The two hours of contact time will be devoted to a formal presentation of the essential aspects of French grammar and syntax as well as the completion of related exercises.  The course delivered on the VLE enables students to develop further their understanding thanks to a number of tasks exploring these key aspects in context. The VLE course also provides answers and explanations, allowing students to organise more efficiently their self-study and concentrate on their particular needs.

The medium of instruction is French.

Teaching materials

It is recommended that students browse through the various grammar books available in the library before purchasing a grammar book which corresponds best to their level and needs.

Set textbook:

• Hawkins, R. and R. Towell. (2001). French Grammar and Usage. 2nd edition. Arnold. London 

Assessment and feedback

Assessment and feedback

Feedback on formative work

• Oral commentary and dialogue within class on grammar exercises. Given immediately both to individuals and to group.
• Online answers and expanations provided with the VLE tasks.
• Model answers may be given for class exercises/ past exam papers, with class discussion of difficulties.

Assessment and feedback

• A grammar test (1 hour closed exam)  
  • Date: Term 2, Week 1
  • Weight: 30%
  • Feedback: Individuals will be allowed to see their exam paper with comments, under supervision, at an appointed date after the external examiner has reviewed the papers.
• A 2 hour closed exam
  
  • Date: Term 3, Weeks 5-7
  • Weight: 70%
  • Feedback: Individuals will be allowed to see their exam paper with comments, under supervision, at an appointed date after the external examiner has reviewed the papers.