French

French is a language of ideas, literature and culture. Through the study of major works from France and across the Francophonie, students explore ideas that have shaped societies, challenged conventions and inspired generations of writers, thinkers and artists.

As part of Jeannine Manuel School's bilingual education, students develop literary and analytical expertise in both French and English. Moving between languages, texts and cultural traditions deepens their understanding of each, while encouraging intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and a nuanced appreciation of different perspectives.

Through reading, writing, discussion and performance, students learn not only to interpret literature, but also to understand how language shapes the way we see ourselves and the world around us.

What Students Experience

Across Middle School, students encounter a broad range of literary genres, from myths and epic journeys to poetry, theatre, novels and contemporary texts. Through these works, they explore enduring questions about identity, heroism, freedom, power, justice and the relationship between individuals and society.

Students engage with influential writers, literary movements and cultural contexts from different periods of French and francophone history. They learn to compare perspectives, examine how texts reflect the societies in which they were produced and consider the ways literature continues to shape contemporary thought.

As they progress through the years, students develop increasingly sophisticated interpretations of texts while building a rich literary and cultural framework that extends beyond national borders.

How Students Learn

Reading, discussion and writing are central to learning in French.

Students are encouraged to question, interpret and debate ideas, supporting their views through close textual analysis. Lessons foster intellectual curiosity while helping students develop confidence in expressing complex ideas with precision and clarity.

Writing takes many forms, from creative and reflective pieces to analytical and argumentative responses. Students learn to refine their thinking, strengthen their written expression and engage critically with literature and language.

Performance also plays an important role. Through recitation, reading aloud, debate and theatre, students develop confidence, presence and fluency in spoken French.

Beyond the Classroom

French extends beyond lessons through literary discussions, theatre, creative projects and cultural experiences. Encounters with French-language theatre, literary and cultural landmarks, including productions in London or even visits to institutions such as the Comédie-Française in Paris, bring the texts students study to life. Cross-curricular projects further encourage them to make connections between literature, history, the arts and the wider Francophonie.

Looking Ahead

The Middle School French curriculum provides strong preparation for the French National Brevet International and for advanced literary study in Upper School, whether on the challenging BFI “HLP” course or in the IB. 

More broadly, students develop the analytical thinking, cultural awareness and communication skills needed to engage confidently with complex ideas across languages and disciplines. These habits of mind support success in future academic study and reflect our school's commitment to excellence through bilingual education.