Try Something New Week

Les Expressions Idiomatiques

Explore the richness of the French language with fun and colorful idioms! In this workshop, students will learn some of the most popular and entertaining expressions used in everyday French. Whether you’re looking to expand your vocabulary or impress native speakers with authentic phrases, this workshop is ideal for A2-level learners. Join us to master expressions that will add personality and flair to your French!

Prerequisites: completion of 204 or equivalent level

Monday, December 16, 6-8pm, in-person
With Linda Blanchette

Le Subjonctif Quotidien

The subjunctive, often seen as a complex aspect of the French language, can be more approachable than you think! Join our workshop "Le Subjonctif Quotidien" to master this essential element of the French language and apply it to your everyday life.

In this interactive workshop, you will:

• Learn the basics of the subjunctive: Discover the rules of subjunctive formation and usage in French. We'll simplify this often intimidating mode.
• Incorporate the subjunctive into your daily life: Explore common situations where the subjunctive is used, whether in expressions, hypothetical sentences, or wishes.
• Engage in French conversations: Participate in discussions and role-playing games to use the subjunctive in real contexts and improve your French communication skills.

Prerequisites: completion of 204 or equivalent level

Monday, December 16, 3-5pm, in-person
With Linda Blanchette

French Etiquette: Navigating Politeness and the Conditional Tense

Join us for a two-hour workshop focused on mastering politeness and formal language in French, along with the use of the conditional. This interactive session aims to enhance participants' communication skills by exploring different forms of politeness used in various contexts, learning key expressions and phrases for respectful communication, and understanding the cultural significance of politeness in the francophone world. Participants will also delve into the structure and formation of the conditional tense, practicing its application for expressing wishes, hypotheses, and polite requests. Open to A2/B1 level students, this workshop will equip attendees with essential linguistic tools to navigate formal communication confidently and courteously.

Prerequisites: 204 or equivalent.

Monday, December 16, 10-12pm, or Thursday, December 19, 6-8pm, on Zoom
With Anne Julie Paillé

French Vocabulary for Wine Lovers - Levels B1/B2

Expand your French vocabulary related to wine tasting! Dive into essential terms and expressions used in the world of wine as you participate in group discussions. Practice articulating your impressions of various wines in French through language exercises that will boost your confidence in navigating wine-related conversations. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply eager to enhance your culinary vocabulary, this workshop will equip you with the skills you need to discuss wine with ease and sophistication. Open to upper intermediate and advanced French learners. Prerequisites: 303 or equivalent.

Prerequisites: completion of 303 or equivalent level

Tuesday, December 17, 10am-12pm, or 6-8pm, on Zoom
With Anne Julie Paillé

Le Chandail (The Hockey Sweater) : A Classic Québécois Story - Levels B1/B2

"Les hivers de mon enfance étaient des saisons longues, longues. Nous vivions en trois lieux: l'école, l'église et la patinoire; mais la vraie vie était sur la patinoire.” Québécois author Roch Carrier’s memoir about hockey and childhood heroes is so beloved, the opening lines actually appear on Canada’s five dollar bill! Get in the winter spirit and discover this Francophone treasure through the original text and short film. The focus of the workshop will be on written and oral comprehension, but you will also have the chance to express yourself in conversation and writing as we summarize the story and share our ideas.

Prerequisites: Completion of 206 or equivalent level

Thursday, December 19, on Zoom
With Marisa Ikert

Exploring Vietnam’s French Heritage: A Personal Journey with Gigi Kuhn - Levels B1, B2 and C1

Curious about the French influence in Vietnam? Gigi Kuhn will share her personal experience as a Vietnamese-born and French native speaker. Born in the capital, Saigon, into a bilingual household where French and Vietnamese were equally spoken, Gigi will discuss how her dual heritage shaped her desire to embrace multilingualism and experience the world. She will present why Vietnam is an attractive destination to explore and the profound impact of the French presence on Vietnamese food, language, and culture. Prerequisites: B1 level minimum

Prerequisites: completion of 303 or equivalent level

Thursday, December 19, 6-8pm, on Zoom
With Gigi Kuhn

Tabous et Débats : L'argent, la religion et le vote - Levels B1, B2 and C1 

As the holiday season approaches, join us for our engaging two-hour workshop titled "Tabous et Débats : L'argent, la religion et le vote," where we will delve into the cultural taboos surrounding money, religion, and the secrecy of voting in the context of French culture. In France, discussions about salary and income are often seen as impolite, particularly during festive gatherings, making it essential to understand the underlying social dynamics. We'll also explore why religion is typically avoided in public conversations, reflecting the country’s secular values and diverse beliefs. Additionally, we’ll discuss the implications of secret voting, a practice that respects individual choice, even among family members during politically charged times. With focused vocabulary building and practice, attendees will leave equipped with essential linguistic tools to navigate complex social themes in French, fostering both linguistic and cultural understanding just in time for the holidays. Prepare yourself for meaningful conversations during this festive season in the rich tapestry of French culture! Prerequisites: 303 or equivalent.

Prerequisites: Completion of 303 or equivalent level

Wednesday, December 18, 10-12p or 6-8pm, on Zoom
With Anne Julie Paillé