The different courses on offer

The course begins with a proficiency test enabling each student to be integrated into a homogenous group according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: from the basic user to the proficient user level.
Pour le niveau minimum demandé voir la rubrique "Notre public".

Two to three teachers work with each level group.

Programme des cours:

1. Working on oral

Oral work is an important part of the course at the Université d’été de Boulogne-sur-Mer (approximately one third of lesson time is devoted to this, besides the numerous occasions for oral communication during the scheduled leisure and cultural activities).
During the courses, it is applied according to different approaches.

• 1. Oral language study
  The activities may be based on songs or role plays for example, to improve diction, articulation, vocabulary or sentence intonation
• 2. Conversation
  Oral exchanges with a teacher or a language assistant in small groups of a maximum of 10 people. The courses are adapted according to the learners’ language level: use of basic vocabulary and current phrases for the beginners; for other levels: themed courses or role plays and oral practice from news and current affairs.
• 3. Phonetics
  Diction, articulation, intonation. Phonetics is often tackled in the different courses.


2. Written expression

Study of the rules and writing of different types of texts.

• 1. Written language study.
  Grammatical points are analysed, such as: simple sentences and their structure; complex sentences with the various types of prepositions, verb tenses, etc. There are also practise exercises suited to the group level and increasing in difficulty throughout the course. The texts used are taken from French and French-speaking literature.
• 2. Written Expression Written work on diverse creations: poems and songs, stories, journalistic accounts, composed commentaries, essays, curriculum vitae… The courses are adapted according to the learners’ language level: use of basic vocabulary and current phrases for the beginners; for other levels: themed courses or role plays and oral practice from news and current affairs.


3. French literature and civilisation or themed modules

The various aspects of French culture

• A look at literature in the French language, illustrated with texts
• The history of institutions and local history
• A reflection on French society
• Theme conferences on or outside the University premises may be offered.

[Dates and length of our general French courses: see fee summary.]

Language stays for Juniors (14 - 17 years old)

Language stays for Juniors (14 - 17) Upon the request of pre-formed groups, the Summer University in Boulogne-sur-Mer can organize language stays for Juniors (teenagers under the age of 18). Our programme benefits from years of experience and knowledge ; it is certified and respects the standards set by the French Ministry of Health, Youth and Sport.

A programme adapted specifically for Juniors :

- dynamic classes combining creative, interactive and game-like activities with the objective of a successful and rapid progression of French-language skills. The main focus is placed on oral communication to allow the young students to speak more spontaneously, improve their pronunciation, and enrich their vocabulary. We also strive to introduce them to French culture and society using concrete examples and methods. Minimum of 15 hours of class per week in groups of 10-15 students..

- a large variety of activities that encourage communication throughout the day as students discover the city, the region and its inhabitants. A cultural activities and entertainment programme of at least 30 hours per week in addition to the constant presence of our team of activity leaders..

- constant supervision by our team of qualified activity leaders, most of whom have earned BAFA certification (French Certificate of Competency for Youth Activity Coordinators). They participate in the activities, are in charge of organization and security on a daily basis, and communicate with each participant on a personal basis.

Personalized help for language stay organizers and accompanying adults :

- organizers : step-by-step support and advice throughout the preparation phase (organizing transportation, help for administrative procedures, sending of additional information, specialized offers and suggestions based on the group’s composition, etc.). The Summer University in Boulogne-sur-Mer can also help organize excursions (reservation of transportation, affordable lodging) to other cities or regions (such as Paris during or in addition to your stay in Boulogne-sur-Mer.

- accompanying adults : our staff is present daily to help you in the organization of your stay ; each group is supervised by our team of activity leaders (provides for a more pleasant stay, reinforced security and greater autonomy for the accompanying adult). The Summer University can also provide advice and support to help accompanying adults attain their goals or establish contacts.

Affordable prices : Specialized prices are offered for groups. The Summer University of Boulogne-sur-Mer offers affordable prices for a high-quality and well-organized programme that respects specific standards for Junior language stays and pays particular attention to the material comfort and security of its participants. Accompanying adults benefit from special conditions that make their stay the best possible.

Courses with a principal subject

They are organised for groups of a minimum of ten people.
The specialised training course is 20 hours per week. It combines the study of the oral and written language, specialising in a principal subject, which may be: Tourist French, economic and business French, French harbour activities, French through theatre or reading and writing, the discovery of local heritage…
Tariffs: Quote according to the group size and programme requested.
Possibilités de stages pour groupes à d'autres période également.

Courses for Teachers of French

They are organised for groups of a minimum of ten people.
This course is aimed at foreign teachers and future teachers of French to a non-French-speaking public. Methodology and teaching methods are covered.
Dates: July an August for a period of 1 to 5 weeks
Tariffs: Quote according to the group size and programme requested.
Possibilités de stages pour groupes à d'autres période également.

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