Debuts

Synopsis

Welcome to Débuts: a completely integrated film-based introductory course for learning French language and culture. The film narrative ofLe Chemin du retouris what drives the scope and sequence of vocabulary and grammar, the presentation of culture, and the development of reading and writing. A two-hour feature-length film,Le Chemin du retouris the story of a young television journalist, Camille Leclair, and her pursuit of the truth about her grandfather’s mysterious past. Through Camille’s quest, students learn language and culture in the functional context provided by the story. The textbook/film package grew out of the authors’ conviction that language learning is more than just learning skills: it is also a process in which understanding of culture must surely occupy a central position. Therefore,DébutsandLe Chemin du retouremphasize the importance of cultural awareness and understanding, not only of French and Francophone culture, but also of the student’s own culture. In addition, theDébutsprogram contains both literary and cultural readings, as well as a playlist of Francophone songs, to provide even more authentic input to students on current or provocative topics, allowing for more student interaction in class.