Voices in Relation: Conversations in French

Course Description

Summary

In this course, students will study and practice social conversation structures modeled in French-speaking contexts. From palabres to salons, from débats to theatrical dialogues, students will develop their understanding of various oral cultural practices, their subtexts and implicit codes, and the ways in which meaning is negotiated through tone, gesture, and context. Emphasis will be placed on both formal and informal registers, allowing students to recognize how identity, power, and social relationships shape conversational dynamics. Through guided practice, role-playing, and analysis of authentic materials, students will refine their listening and speaking skills while gaining confidence in spontaneous interaction. Particular attention will be given to turn-taking, politeness strategies, argumentation, and the art of nuance in various French-speaking cultural contexts. By the end of the course, students will be able to engage more fluidly and appropriately in a range of French-speaking environments, demonstrating not only linguistic competence but also cultural awareness and interpretive sensitivity. Intermediate high and Advanced levels.