FR 331A: Advanced Composition, Conversation, and Translation I

The objective of this course is to have students interact with each other, the professor and members of the community, using the French language so that they will continue perfecting both your written and oral French and increasing your knowledge of French culture and heritage in North America. Combining written, oral, research and translation skills in French, the class will also prepare two service-learning projects during the term. Grammar, reading, and research assignments are designed to stimulate group discussion and develop further students' knowledge of French culture as well as to develop more fluidity in their own French-language expression. Activities for service-learning projects include: a. Researching French-language resources to learn about the establishment of New France in the Champlain Valley region, the contributions of Samuel de Champlain, the life style of the early French settlers, the interaction of the early French explorers and settlers with the native American tribes in the area, and other aspects of French-heritage of the region b. Preparation of English to French translations and visual materials for the Festival c. Preparing word lists and basic French lessons for middle-school and high school students at the Festival of Nations d. Greeting visitors in French and providing historical information at the Festival of Nations e. Researching French-language resources to study domestic violence and services to assist victims in Quebec and France, then: f. Translating a brochure and Web-site text from English to French