Catching Up - French Classes

Evidently, it takes a trip to motivate me to post. Before  I  get into travel mode, let me describe life right here in Beaverton, Oregon.  I am still teaching French at PCC.  Taught French 102 and French 103 the last two terms. Fun to teach more advanced French classes. Back to French 101 this spring. French 101 may be the most challenging class of all. Students can find the very effective Immersion Method  overwhelming. They need patience, support, kindness, compassion and clarity to get through the first few weeks.  Many students end up dropping, but those who stick it out find the excitement and reward of learning the beautiful French language. I know a class is going well when there is a lot of laughter and self laughter. Perhaps the best strategy when learning something new is to not take oneself too seriously.

On February 18, I did a Cooking in French Class chez moi. We went over recipes in French and prepared Biscuits aux Olives, Soupe aux Cailloux, and Clafoutis aux Cerises. The student levels varied dramatically, but everyone spoke as much French as possible while cooking and lunching together.

Karen enjoying French lunch.

Kaitlyn and Dad relishing dessert.

Dawn and Nathan, the soup team. 

Table set for lunch. Love this table cloth purchased in Marseille.