Module overview
This module is designed to provide you with a broad introduction to the culture, history and language of France and Francophone countries. By studying various types of primary and secondary sources, you will become familiar with a wide range of themes, events and ideas from this region.
All materials will be available in English, allowing students with little or no prior knowledge of the French language to engage with the module.
Linked modules
new module for MLL Revalidation
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- make use of libraries, archives and online resources to access relevant information
- critically evaluate and analyse primary and secondary sources
- plan and organise your learning, exercising independence and initiative
- adhere to guidelines and deadlines
- communicate your ideas in clear, concise writing
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- the similarities and dissimilarities between the cultures and societies of Francophone countries and your own culture
- major events and trends in the modern history of Francophone countries
- key forms of cultural expression in modern Francophone countries
- various aspects of the histories, cultures and politics of Francophone countries
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- define, present and exemplify concepts related to Francophone countries
- engage with different types of material related to France and Francophone countries in both breadth and depth
- select, synthesize and focus information about Francophone countries from a variety of primary and secondary sources
- apply knowledge, understanding and analysis critically to different topics related to Francophone countries
Syllabus
Specific topics will vary year to year but will include a variety of historical events, texts and case studies from France and, where applicable, other Francophone countries.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching and learning methods include:
- lectures introducing basic concepts and context
- seminars, where we will discuss materials and concepts both as a whole and in small groups
- independent reading, thinking and writing
- one-to-one tutorials
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 12 |
| Guided independent study | 126 |
| Seminar | 12 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Robin Adamson (2007). The defence of French: A language in crisis?. Clevedon, New York, Toronto: Multilingual Matters Ltd.
Marion Demossier, David Lees, Aurelien Mondon, Nina Parish (2020). The Routledge Handbook of French Politics and Culture. London & New York: Routledge International Handbooks.
Charles Forsdick & Claire Launchbury (2022). Transnational French Studies. Liverpool.
Charles Sowerwine (2001 (2018 third edition revised)). France since 1870. London: Red Globe Press.
Emile Chabal (2020). France. Cambridge.
Rod Kedward (2005). La vie en bleu: France and the French since 1900. London.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Essay | 50% |
| Essay | 50% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Essay | 50% |
| Essay | 50% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External