University Bulletin
Undergraduate Degree Programs
FR 410
(IL)
French Press (3) Extensive readings of selected french daily and weekly newspapers and magazines, along with newscast viewings.
FR 410 French Press (3)
(IL)
This course, which is taught in French, is designed to introduce students to the history and current state of French press and media (including newspapers, magazines, radio and television) while introducing them to French society and culture through media coverage of current and recent events. The course is also designed to help students perfect reading, writing and oral communication in French. The course starts with a brief history of the press in France, including the creation of dailies such as Le Journal de Paris and the impact of some well-known journalists or writers upon events such as the Dreyfus Affair. It will then focus more specifically upon the origins of high-circulation, contemporary newspapers and magazines. Quickly moving to the post-WWII period, students will be introduced to radio and television in France and, as they become more familiar with French and Francophone press and media, will be given several opportunities to study current or recent events of the French and Francophone world, in fields such as sports, politics, culture and economics. Library holdings and internet sites will allow the class to regularly read daily newspapers such as Le Monde and Le Figaro and view newscasts on channels such as TF1 and FR2. Once they are familiar with the available resources, students will share research with fellow classmates through oral presentations, for example in the form of simulated newscasts. Students will also develop with the guidance of the instructor an independent, final paper which will explore some aspect of the French press and media. One of several departmental offerings in the area of French Civilization, FR 410 course can be used to fulfill a 400-level requirement for the French Business, French-Engineering, Applied French, and French Language and Culture options, as well as for the French minor. By covering the way in which the range of social identities and the cultural beliefs and values of French-speaking peoples are reflected in various media, and by assisting students in finding and assessing information about current events in the Francophone world, the course can also fulfill an "IL" requirement. Evaluation methods include a series of short quizzes to cover historical and factual data; a short midterm paper based on primary (newspaper-based) research; a longer final paper based on primary and secondary research; other written work of a short-response nature; a group oral presentation summing up the previous week's news and events; and participation, including presence. The course is offered once a year, usually in the spring semester.
Note : Class size, frequency of offering, and evaluation methods will vary by location and instructor. For these details check the specific course syllabus.