Course Descriptions
FRENCH 1, Elementary French I, 5 units
Transfer: UC, CSU • IGETC Foreign Language (required for UC only) • Prerequisite: None
This course introduces the students to basic vocabulary and fundamental sentence structures in the present and past. Pronunciation, grammar and everyday vocabulary are stressed as indispensable tools for comprehension and expression. French customs, culture and everyday life are also highlighted. The course is taught in French except in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor. Language lab is required.
FRENCH 2, Elementary French II, 5 units
Transfer: UC, CSU • IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities), Foreign Language (required for UC only) • Prerequisite: French 1*.
This course completes the basics of the language further stressing pronunciation, grammar and everyday vocabulary as indispensable tools for comprehension. It also includes simplified readings highlighting French customs, culture, and everyday life. This course is taught in French except in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor. Language lab is required.
*The prerequisite for this course is comparable to two years of high school French.
FRENCH 3, Intermediate French I, 5 units
Transfer: UC, CSU • IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities) • Prerequisite: French 2*.
This course reviews French grammar emphasizing idiomatic construction and expressions. Oral discussions and conversations are based on selected readings from contemporary French literature. The course is taught in French except in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor.
*The Prerequisite for this course is comparable to three years of high school French.
FRENCH 4, Intermediate French II, 5 units
Transfer: UC, CSU • IGETC AREA 3B (Humanities) • Prerequisite: French 3*.
This course continues the review of functional French grammar with emphasis upon idiomatic constructions and expressions. Oral discussions are based on selected readings from contemporary French literature. This course is taught in French except in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor.
*The prerequisite for this course is comparable to four years of high school French.
FRENCH 8, Conversational French, 2 units
Transfer: UC, CSU • Prerequisite: French 2*
.This course provides an opportunity to acquire fluency in spoken French with emphasis on natural, colloquial use. This course is taught in French unless in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor. The prerequisite for this course is comparable to three years of high school French.
FRENCH 31A, Practical French, 3 units
Transfer: CSU • Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to develop effective communication skills. It emphasizes the use of set-up phrases, idiomatic expressions, correct pronunciation and intonation, development of useful vocabulary, and ability to communicate without hesitation in a given situation. This course does not fulfill the language requirement. This course is taught in French unless in cases of linguistic difficulty as determined by the professor.
FRENCH 31S, Practical French, 1 unit
Transfer: CSU • Prerequisite: None.
This course is designed to develop effective communication skills. It emphasizes the use of set-up phrases, idiomatic expressions, correct pronunciation and intonation, development of useful vocabulary, and ability to communicate without hesitation in a given situation. This course does not fulfill the language requirement. It is only offered concurrently with French 1 in 6-week sessions and the Study Abroad Program.
Transfer Preparation
Many colleges and universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university need to know which courses completed at Santa Monica College will be accepted at the specific college/university. Please consult a Counselor. SMC has transfer articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as many private and out-of-state institutions.
Degrees and Certificates
Currently, there are no degrees or certificates offered in this discipline at Santa Monica College. Most students should plan to transfer to a four-year institution to continue their education toward a degree in this discipline. Transferring students who wish to qualify for an Associate degree before leaving Santa Monica College should discuss their plans with a Counselor before selecting classes.