French Language Phonetics 3304-1DZ1O-FJF-026
The course focuses primarily on learning how to transcribe French words, sentences, and texts using the phonetic alphabet. The instructor explains the structure of the speech apparatus, as well as the vowels and consonants in French. Particular attention is paid to vowels—their characteristics in terms of openness, nasality/labiality, place of articulation, and rounding. Subsequent classes focus on the rules for dividing words into syllables and rhythmic groups, the relationship between the spelling and pronunciation of a given vowel, and word-to-word connections. The last few sessions focus primarily on practicing the transcription of texts.
Course coordinators
Type of course
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:
- describe the vowel and consonant systems in French,
- describe individual vowels—whether oral or nasal—specifying their degree of openness, place of articulation, and any rounding,
- divide a text into rhythmic groups,
- transcribe a text consisting of a dozen or so sentences.
Assessment criteria
Classes are conducted remotely via zoom.us and through the Kampus platform.
To be eligible to take the exam, you must, during the semester:
1) earn a minimum score of 70% on the online entrance exams and final exercises on the kampus.come.uw.edu.pl platform, and
2) in the second half of the semester, receive a passing grade on the transcription of a short text, evaluated according to exam criteria (the grading guidelines will be provided to you).
Note: The pandemic situation may affect the format and criteria for assessment. I will discuss these with you on a case-by-case basis and keep you informed of all changes.
Students are allowed only two unexcused absences per semester. With three unexcused absences, students must complete an additional assignment during the exam. With four or more, I will not grant credit for the course.
Bibliography
Dutka-Mańkowska, A., Pilecka, E., *Précis de la phonétique du français contemporain*. IR, Warsaw, 2008.