JUNIOR CYCLE
French is one of the three modern languages taught for Junior Cycle. Pupils are given the opportunity to sample each of the languages before deciding which one to study. No previous experience of the language is required. The course aims to bring together three strands:
Communicative Competence: Students focus on listening, reading, speaking, interacting and writing to develop the building blocks of competence in the language.
Language Awareness: Exploring how language works – how some languages are similar and others are very different in terms of rhythm, intonation, grammar and vocabulary.
Socio-Cultural and Intercultural Awareness: Learning about France and French culture, traditions, customs, key historical events and geography.
SENIOR CYCLE
Pupils continue their language learning at Senior Cycle. As well as the study of the language itself and the development of effective communication skills, the programme includes awareness of French culture and politics.
French may be studied at Higher or Ordinary level with an examination including oral, aural and written components. Students wishing to study French for Senior Cycle must have a minimum 4 years of prior study.