French advanced course syllabus

1. Grammar Refinement

  • Advanced subjunctive usage (subtle nuances, literary forms)

  • Hypothetical structures (si clauses in all forms)

  • Complex conjunctions (bien que, à moins que, pourvu que)

  • Stylistic inversion in writing & formal speech

  • Tense harmonization in narration (passé simple, plus-que-parfait)

2. Vocabulary Expansion

  • Specialized lexicon (law, business, medicine, literature)

  • Idiomatic expressions & proverbs

  • Synonyms & precise word choice (savoir vs. connaître, grand vs. gros)

  • Argot (slang) & regional variations (Québecois, African French)

3. Listening & Speaking Mastery

  • Understanding fast-paced native speech (films, debates, podcasts)

  • Recognizing different accents (European, African, Canadian)

  • Delivering persuasive speeches & structured debates

  • Nuanced intonation & tone in formal/informal contexts

4. Advanced Writing Skills

  • Formal essays (dissertation, commentaire composé)

  • Literary analysis & critique

  • Professional writing (reports, emails, legal/business documents)

  • Creative writing (short stories, poetry)

5. Cultural & Sociolinguistic Competence

  • French history, politics, and contemporary issues

  • Sociolinguistic variations (register, politeness, jargon)

  • Francophone cultures (Africa, Caribbean, Canada)

  • Interpreting humor, sarcasm, and implied meaning