French conversational advance B2+

You have reached an advanced, or higher, level (B2, C1 or C2) in French and you would like to practise the language through interactive activities such as conversation practice, role-playing, debates and negotiations. The main idea of a conversational course is to promote communication, pronunciation, vocabulary development and group discussion skills while focusing on current events and cultural topics in contemporary French and the Francophone world.

Key information

Course starting in January 2025

• Course: Wednesdays 12.30pm - 1.30pm
  Delivery: Online
  Timeline: Starts 22 January - ends 26 March 2025
  Lengths: 10 weeks
  Fees: £75

This course is aimed at small groups. It requires a minimum of 7 and it can have up to a maximum of 12 students. The course fee includes directions, support and feedback from the tutor as well as access to Blackboard where you will find key notes, vocabulary used and grammar points summaries following each session.

Term 2 runs from January to March. A full course comprises 10 learning hours. Sessions are one hour long and take place once a week.

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Entry level

You have reached the level B2 (or above) or you have enough knowledge to be on track with the group. You can use the ELP self-assessment grid to judge how competent you are in the language. Alternatively, if you require help to assess your level please contact us or come along to one of our drop-in sessions.

Course content

The following learning outcomes are designed to advance learners' conversational skills, preparing them for nuanced and complex interactions in French at a B2 level or higher.

Speaking and interaction

• Improved fluency: Speak French with greater fluidity and spontaneity, minimising hesitations and pauses.
• Complex conversations: Engage in extended conversations on diverse and abstract topics, including social, cultural and current events.
• Debating and argumentation: Present, defend, and challenge viewpoints effectively during discussions or debates on complex issues.
• Interactive dialogues: Maintain and manage conversations, including turn-taking, responding to others and smoothly changing topics.
• Expressing nuanced opinions: Clearly articulate opinions and ideas with precision, using a wide range of vocabulary and expressions.

Listening and comprehension

• Understanding detailed speech: Comprehend spoken French in various contexts, including formal and informal settings, even with complex arguments and unfamiliar vocabulary.
• Recognising idiomatic expressions: Identify and understand idiomatic expressions, colloquialisms and cultural references commonly used by native speakers.
• Comprehending varied accents: Develop the ability to understand different French accents and regional variations in spoken language.

Vocabulary and language use

• Expanded vocabulary: Increase the use of advanced and topic-specific vocabulary to discuss a wide range of subjects confidently.
• Precision in language: Use language accurately and effectively, particularly in complex sentence structures and specialised topics.
• Appropriate register: Adapt language use to suit different conversational contexts, distinguishing between formal, informal and neutral registers.

Pronunciation and intonation

• Refined pronunciation: Enhance pronunciation, including accurate articulation of sounds, correct stress patterns and natural intonation.
• Native-like rhythm: Develop a more native-like rhythm and flow in speech, reducing noticeable foreign accents.

Cultural awareness and context

• Cultural references: Gain a deeper understanding of cultural references, customs, and norms in French-speaking countries, leading to more culturally informed conversations.
• Discussing cultural topics: Engage in conversations about French and Francophone culture, literature and current societal trends with contextual awareness.

Conversational strategies

• Paraphrasing and clarification: Effectively use strategies such as paraphrasing, summarising, and asking for clarification to ensure mutual understanding in conversations.
• Negotiating meaning: Handle misunderstandings or gaps in communication by negotiating meaning and rephrasing complex ideas.

Confidence and autonomy

• Increased confidence: Build confidence in speaking French in various social and professional contexts, leading to greater autonomy in communication.
• Self-correction: Develop the ability to self-correct language errors in real-time, leading to more polished and accurate speech.

Situational applications

• Role-playing real scenarios: Practise conversational skills through role-plays and simulations of real-life situations, such as making plans, giving advice or handling disputes.
• Professional communication: Enhance the ability to participate in professional dialogues, including giving presentations, leading meetings and networking.

Resources

No textbook required.

Our approach

The conversations take place entirely in French. They aim to develop communication skills: listening and speaking, through interactive activities such as conversations, role-play, debates, oral presentations and negotiations, as well as cultural awareness. They provide a good balance between understanding both the French language and the cultures of the Francophone world enhancing communication and interaction. They support comprehensive and productive skills through authentic based activities and guided practice in the use of the language. Students will be encouraged to actively participate in class. Group numbers are limited to 12 students and planned to allow intensive interactive practice with individual feedback and advice on progress.

Bring your lunch and join the conversation in a safe and fun environment!