French Language Sequence – Grades 9–12
Course Overview
Summit’s French language program offers a comprehensive four-year sequence that builds students' communicative proficiency, cultural awareness, and academic fluency. The curriculum aligns with ACTFL performance standards and CEFR levels from A1 to C1. Students engage with authentic Francophone materials and develop critical skills to analyze, interpret, and express complex ideas in French.
Upon completion of this sequence, students are prepared to demonstrate CEFR C1-level proficiency, which is the standard required for direct admission to most French universities and Grandes Écoles. Students are encouraged to sit for the official DALF C1 (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française) examination and are also fully prepared for the AP French Language & Culture exam. The program ensures readiness for academic writing, oral argumentation, formal communication, and advanced study in French-speaking environments worldwide.
Course Progression
| Grade | Course | Focus Areas | Target Proficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 9 | French 1 |
Present tense, greetings, personal identity, family, daily life Introduction to Francophone regions and customs |
ACTFL Novice High / CEFR A1–A2 |
| Grade 10 | French 2 |
Past tenses, descriptive language, travel, food, education Functional use of language in real-world scenarios |
ACTFL Intermediate Low / CEFR A2–B1 |
| Grade 11 | French 3 Honors |
Subjunctive mood, narration, opinion writing, current issues Exploration of Francophone literature, film, and media |
ACTFL Intermediate Mid / CEFR B1 |
| Grade 12 | French 4 Honors |
Formal and academic writing, oral presentations, persuasive argument Deep engagement with global Francophone themes |
ACTFL Intermediate High / CEFR B2 |
| Grade 12 | AP French Language & Culture |
Full alignment with College Board’s six AP themes and exam format Advanced reading, writing, speaking, and listening proficiency |
ACTFL Advanced Low / CEFR B2–C1 |
Instructional Methods
French courses are taught almost entirely in French and emphasize performance-based language use. Instruction includes guided discussions, critical reading, structured writing, and interpretive listening, supported by authentic materials such as news articles, interviews, short stories, films, and radio broadcasts from the Francophone world. All courses incorporate College Board AP strategies, CEFR-aligned skill building, and individualized oral practice.
Assessment & Grading
| Assessment Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Speaking & Listening Tasks | 30% |
| Reading & Writing Assignments | 25% |
| Vocabulary & Grammar Quizzes | 15% |
| Cultural Projects | 15% |
| Participation & Homework | 15% |
Academic Vocabulary & Key Concepts
| Category | Key Terms | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Grammar Structures | Subjunctive, conditional, compound tenses, passive voice, connectors | Used in essays, simulated conversations, and presentations |
| Global Themes | Immigration, education, identity, family, technology, social movements | Explored through interpretive tasks, debates, and cultural comparisons |
| Exam Readiness | DALF C1, AP French, university placement exams | Preparation includes practice with authentic materials and formal tasks |