OPAL French Elementary
Prerequisites:
Students should be able to demonstrate a linguistic competence as described in level 1 of the
ALTE framework1. Furthermore, they must be able to commit to at least 2 hours per week for
coursework, in addition to classes.
Course Material:
Campus 1 (2002) J. Pécheur, J. Girardet CLE International + handouts provided by the tutor
Course description:
Please note that OPAL tutors will provide a detailed ‘week-by-week’ course syllabus and a
self-study guide at the beginning of each term.
Structural content :
Verbs in the present (all groups)
Articles
Negative & Interrogative forms
Adjectives
Prepositions with places
The imperative
Since, for and ago
Past Tenses: Passé composé / Imperfect
Nominalization
Near future / Future
Direct and indirect object pronouns
Comparison
Simple relative clauses
Adverbs
Communicative content:
Introducing oneself
Talking about likes and dislikes
Talking about leisure
Daily routine
Asking/giving directions
Describing where you live
Inviting someone & planning for an evening out
Describing your family & describing someone (physical appearance and personality)
Talking about how things used to be
Telling a story in the past
Talking about the future
Expressing aims and causes
Giving short presentations
Media
1
Prerequisites : ALTE LEVEL 1
- Can express simple opinions or requirements in a familiar context.
- Can understand straightforward information within a known area, such as on products and signs, and simple textbooks or
reports on familiar matters.
- Can give a short presentation on a limited range of topics.
- Can complete forms and write short simple letters and postcards.
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French Elementary Assessment Framework:
Continuous Exam:
Michaelmas term Test 15%
Participation and course work 15%
Final exam
Trinity Term test 35%
Project presentation 35%
Final mark & recommendation:
50 – 69 Pass
70 – 79 Pass with merit
80 + Distinction
Learning outcomes:
ALTE LEVEL 2
- Can express opinions on professional, cultural or abstract matters in a limited way, offer
advice and understand instructions.
- Can give short presentations on a limited range of topics.
- Can understand routine information and articles, including factual articles in newspapers,
routine letters from hotel and letters expressing personal opinions.
- Can write letters or make notes on familiar or predictable matters.
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