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| Reviewed: |
Oct 28, 2005 by World Languages Editorial Board |
| Overview: |
The purpose of this website is to practice past narration in French using the
passé composé and the imparfait. The first part is comprised of a series of past
tense exercises with immediate feedback. The user views some Quicktime
videoclips and is then prompted to describe the action using the passé composé
or the imperfect form. There are currently thirteen videoclips that depict a
variety of situations with past actions. The second part of the web site
requires the viewing of a popular feature-length film, Le fabuleux destin
dAmélie Poulain. This film can be rented at most video stores. The title in
English is Amélie. Upon viewing the film, the user can complete the Grammaire
Visuelle activities that focus on the correct use of past tenses.
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| Learning Goals: |
The learner will discover and improve comprehension of the correct usage of
French past tenses.
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| Target Student Population: |
French language learners studying past tense narration
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| Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills: |
French vocabulary and language proficiency sufficient to complete tasks on past
narration
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| Type of Material: |
Videoclips and self-correcting activities
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| Recommended Uses: |
Homework and in-class work on passé composé and imparfait
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| Technical Requirements: |
QuickTime
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| Strengths: |
This is a very straightforward site on a topic of perennial difficulty for
beginning French students - the correct use of past forms. Visual learners will
appreciate the simple everyday situations that serve as a basis for the
exercises. The exercises have far more appeal than drills that are completely
text-based. The learner has the opportunity to internalize the information on
the proper past form by using visual cues and eyewitness observation.
The popular feature film Amélie is another platform to review these forms. The
film exposes learners to authentic and grammatically correct language use in a
setting that is rich in culture. In completing this exercise, students get much
more than a grammar lesson, even while perfecting their past narration skills.
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| Concerns: |
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Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool |
Rating:    |
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| Strengths: |
This web site can be a useful tool in class or for independent study. Faculty
can project the scenes on a large screen and have students describe them orally,
perhaps in small groups.
The film expansion exercise could make a wonderful extra credit project for
students who seek further practice of past tenses.
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| Concerns: |
A possible enhancement would be a glossary of some of the vocabulary in the
videoclips. (computer, PDA, pacifier, teddy bear,etc.)
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Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty |
Rating:   |
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| Strengths: |
Grammaire Visuelle is very easy to use. Having the accent marks right on the
screen is a nice feature. The videos pop up quickly and are clear and effective
for their purpose. The design is simple with an emphasis on functionality.
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