Introduction to the Course
Here is a brief overview of the French B course.
French B is a language-acquisition course. The main focus of the course is on the development of language skills (listening, reading, speaking, writing) through the study of a variety of topics and text types.
You should take this course if:
- French is a second / foreign language for you ;
- Your interest is in developing your command of the language ;
- You have some previous knowledge of the language. (Your teacher should be able to advise you in this matter.)
The course is built around 5 themes:
- Identities
- Experiences
- Human ingenuity
- Social organization
- Sharing the planet
Within these themes you will explore more specific topics, such as social relationships, travel, social engagement, human rights, ethics, migration, or the environment.
As you study these topics, you will also increase your skills and confidence in reading, listening, and communicating in a range of contexts and text types (such as articles, blog entries, pamphlets, and more).
Higher level students will also study two works of literature.
Assessment component | ||
Individual oral examination A short presentation, followed by a conversation with your teacher | During your 2nd year | 25% |
Paper 1 - Writing One writing task from a choice of three, choosing the appropriate text type | During the final examination session | 25% |
Paper 2 - Reading comprehension Comprehension exercises on three texts | During the final examination session | 25% |
Paper 2 - Listening comprehension Comprehension exercises on three audio passages | During the final examination session | 25% |
Note : You can find out about the assessment in more detail on this page.
HL students read two works of literature. The study of literature is optional at SL.
The oral exam for HL is based on an excerpt from one of the literary works studied in class. In SL it is based on a picture linked to one of the themes studied in class.
- The assessment tasks are quite similar in nature, but the level of difficulty and the evaluation criteria are more demanding at HL (especially for accuracy and complexity of language use).