French

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In Mason’s schools, French was taught first not only because of it’s proximity to England, but because of it’s foundation for the English language.

Vocabulary

In the early years, vocabulary is developed through pictures and objects around the student’s environment.  Below are resources you could use for vocabulary.  The key here is to remember that the students are not to see the words.  In some cases, you may need to find a way to cover the words.

  • Teach Me…French and More French-this is a GREAT resource for songs, stories, vocabulary and poems!  AND it comes with an audio CD!! Excellent for Form 1 beginners
  • In the Town All Year ‘Round-this book is nearly perfect for vocabulary development and picture narration, without any words cluttering the pages
  • Oxford First Flash Cards-these flash cards have pictures on one side and words on the other-no need to cover!
  • 1000 First Words in French-this book has the pictures with words and would require the words to be covered.
  • French Audio Flash Cards-appears to be a great tool for all ages, but especially for those older beginners
  • This free website (ielanguages.com) hosts free audio recordings of common phrases, words and grammar!

Songs

Stories

Poems

M. Gouin’s Series

CM-Friendly Curricula/Online Programs

  • TheULAT.com is a great resource for older students, with its native speakers and dependence on the ear and gestures for learning–it would still need to be supplemented with songs, poems, stories, etc.
  • The Learnables-an immersion-based program for older students that begins with listening and speaking before moving on to reading and writing
  • French in Action: full immersion TV series developed to teach viewers French.  For the older students (high school).  There are workbooks and textbooks to go with it to make it a complete course, but it could simply be used as a supplemental listen!  Very engaging.  Considered a “cult classic!”
  • Livelingua.com: online Skype lessons with native speakers
  • Français Immersion: immersion-based YouTube channel and website with native speaker who uses drawings and actions to communicate meaning.  This is for the older student already reading.