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French Language Course Perspective
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by Renée White
Teacher
AP French
Greenhill School
Dallas, Texas
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| | Please note: The official College Board® Course Description is available below in "More."
When I started teaching AP French Language years ago, I had no idea how much it differed from AP French Literature. If possible, both courses should be taught because they offer access to some of the world's greatest literature. What students learn in AP French Literature and AP French Language will prove useful in their English classes, and will be a source of enrichment throughout their lives.
> For both AP French Language and AP French Literature, the first year is very important. At this early stage, students should begin learning the four basic skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). This seems like an impossible task, but just as when babies begin to speak, the language should be very simple, based on the vocabulary acquired. The teacher must guide the students in the use of dictionaries because direct translation from English can lead to serious mistakes. This doesn't exclude the dictionary, but it should be used as a tool, not as a crutch. Even at the earlier French I level, it is important to use a variety of transitional words to connect phrases. This, then, will become a habit students will continue at the higher levels. Using more sophisticated vocabulary, good idioms, accurate grammar, and a variety of verb tenses will enhance the students' speaking and writing skills. If they are able to write a small composition with little or no help from the dictionary, they will do a better job when they are in the AP class.
When reading French, the basic rule is to read sentences, not individual words. The students need to learn to guess the words they don't know within the context of what they are reading. Remember that one fourth of the AP language test is based on reading excerpts that they have never seen before. These passages can be taken from literature or from newspaper articles, so exposing the students to literature in the AP language course is a must. It is obviously also very important for them to read articles from French newspapers and magazines.
> As the students progress, the four skills become more interrelated. What they have learned by reading they can use in speaking and in writing. Impromptu oral presentation should become part of their routine. Listening skills can be further emphasized not only by having them listen to the teacher but also by the regular use of tapes, TV programs, and the like.
As you teach this and other courses, don't hesitate to exchange ideas with other teachers as one way of improving your craft. I also recommend that you make use of the AP French Electronic Discussion Group and attend an AP Summer Institute where you can learn about the exam and how it is graded. I also recommend the one- and two-day workshops sponsored by the College Board®. Bonne chance!
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