This module involves a continuation and consolidation of language work done in Part 1 of the degree and provides a solid preparation for independent study during the compulsory period of study in France in the third year. This module is designed to enable students to develop the transferable skills of translating from and into French efficiently; interpreting formally and informally between French and English; presenting, in writing, an extended, logical argument, summarising other points of view, assessing and evaluating evidence and reaching personal conclusions and syntheses; demonstrating competence in other writing skills; operating and presenting arguments effectively in French, monologue, dialogue and group discussion. This module also aims to prepare students thoroughly both linguistically and culturally for their period of study abroad.

This course will also involve the translation from French into English of passages drawn from a range of journalistic, literary and other sources. It will focus on key translation issues (e.g., register, tone, style), identify techniques for overcoming linguistic problems encountered in translation, and enable students to expand their vocabulary in core areas covered in translation classes.

For Erasmus students, this course corresponds to a B2/C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

• Demonstrate a sound knowledge of understanding of French society and culture (including music, cinema, literature), a well developed cultural awareness prior to the Year Abroad.

• Exhibit a stronger grasp of French grammar, an improved use of language in context, enhanced listening and comprehension skills

• Display an awareness of key translation issues (register, tone, style), an expanded vocabulary in French and an enhanced capacity for dealing with linguistic problems encountered in translation

• Display analytical and  reasoning skills, critical evaluation of text/video/audio material, translation skills

3 contact hours per week

 - 2 hours of French language

 Independent learning and research: should be at least 5 to 6 hours per week.

 - 1 hour Translation (into English)

Independent learning and research: should be at least 2.5 to 3 hours per week.

• To develop further analytical skills
• To develop and encourage accurate written French expression
• To develop cultural and linguistic awareness in preparation for the year abroad
• To encourage the development of advanced IT skills
• To encourage both independent and group working skills
• To improve French listening and comprehension
• To develop and encourage accurate spoken expression in French
• To develop awareness of registers (both written and conversational), accents and pronunciation
• To develop further the understanding of French society and culture
• To develop the skill of translating short passages from French into English
• To develop awareness of key translation problems and techniques for overcoming these

French expression and translation:

May/June examination:

One two hour paper: 1) Text analysis and comprehension, 4) translation of passage from French into English.

Continuous assessment:

French language component:

Essay writing: analytical skills, accurate written French (2 essays)

Version:

Regular translation exercises: grammatical/ syntactical/ stylistic accuracy in English (2 translations)

Oral assessment:

Exposé: usage of spoken French, presentation skills, independent research skills

French language classes will concentrate upon the study of:

-Discursive writing in French (essay writing) and  other writing skills (reformulation of material, questions), French grammar, French culture (cinema, literature), understanding and reporting of written material,  introduction to translation into French. Aural and oral training using a wide range of audio/video material, for both class teaching and independent learning; regular coursework exercises and grammar workshops.

Version

- Translation from French into English of a range of texts drawn from journalistic, literary and other sources

- Translation workshops aimed at identifying key linguistic, stylistic and syntactical problems in translation passages and developing basic techniques for addressing these

- Regular coursework exercises and guided study for individual and group translation

- Regular provision of vocabulary sheets on topic areas covered in translation classes