French

Course summary

You will examine social issues, social trends, politics, current affairs and cultural matters as they pertain to France and French-speaking countries. As well as considering the impact of the French presidential elections, your work will include amongst others a study of equal opportunities in France, of social issues and of the impact of technology in our daily lives. Culture lessons will include references to significant events from 20th and 21st century French society; we will discuss different genres of music and the influence of multiculturalism on listening habits in France. We focus on the impact of youth culture by analysing films such as La Haine and Les 400 Coups. During your conversation lesson, you can expect to debate contentious and important issues. In the Upper Sixth, you will explore the impact of the Occupation in France through study of Joffo’s Un Sac de Billes, and at least another text such as Tartuffe by Molière. The topics of your conversation lessons are closely linked to your course and you will have the opportunity to present an aspect of culture you have found particularly interesting. All French pupils will take part in cultural events throughout the year, including theatre trips to Oxford and London and lectures at the French Institute. You should also attend workshops and dinners run by our Modern Linguists Society and the International Film Club. Wycombe Abbey is building a strong reputation for debate in the yearly national competition held in London which we hope you will be able to maintain.