Course content

This course deals with a selection of authentic French- and Norwegian-language texts (newspapers, non-fiction and fiction), and involves translation of Norwegian texts into French and vice versa. Additionally, students will be writing summaries and present oral summaries of authentic texts.

The course requires students to have previous knowledge of French. Students are expected to be able to understand authentic French texts and to discuss topics of current interest in French. The course includes written and oral work and is relevant for students seeking future employment in areas in which proficiency in French is essential (teaching, business, international relations).

This is a practical course and students are expected to work diligently. Students are therefore required to attend at least 3 out of 4 on-campus sessions in order to be eligible to sit the exam.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

Candidates who have passed this course:

- can identify and explain contrasting aspects in translations between French and Norwegian

- have knowledge about and are able to identify typical features of various stylistic levels and genres

Skills

Candidates who have passed this course:

- have attained a proficiency level in written and spoken French equivalent to a higher intermediate-level/level B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

- have good general knowledge of French syntax

- have developed a varied and precise vocabulary

- can read and synthesize articles, complex non-fiction texts, academic texts, technical instructions as well as fiction in French

- can compose texts in a variety of different genres and select a stylistic level appropriate to the genre and the recipient

- know how to make appropriate use of analogue and digital translation tools

General competence

Candidates who have passed this course:

- have analytical skills

- can synthesize complex problems and present content through various genres and registers

Learning methods and activities

The course makes use of the "blended learning" approach:

- Weekly individual or group meetings (in both French and Norwegian)

- 4 on-campus sessions (in both French and Norwegian)

- 6 obligatory assignments (2 oral and 4 written assignments)

- 75% mandatory participation in on-campus sessions.

The absence limit is intended to cover normal sick leave and similar situations. Therefore, you will not be granted valid absence from teaching based on a medical certificate, even if the absence is due to circumstances beyond your control.

In special cases, agreements for exemption can be made with the course coordinator, preferably at the start of the semester.

Approved obligatory assignments are valid for 2 semesters (the semester in which the approval is given, plus the following semester). All obligatory assignments must be completed in the same semester.

Compulsory assignments

• 2 oral assignments
• 4 written assignments
• 75 % mandatory attendance

Recommended previous knowledge

First year-courses (FRA1000-courses) in French. Intermediate-level proficiency in French (proficiency in French equivalent to level B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

Course materials

The reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions