Junior Freshman French Oral Supplemental Examinations 2013

Candidates are reminded that the topics for discussion in the oral examination are related to the material used in the Language 2 course. The intention is not to test candidates' knowledge of the precise subject- matter of the texts used in that course, but rather to provide an opportunity for them to show that they are capable of presenting a topic and a personal point of view in French, with reference to a subject-area which they have had the opportunity to consider in advance.

Assessment will reflect the candidate's ability to make a coherent exposition as well as ability to speak correct and idiomatic French.

Candidates should select and prepare one of the topics listed below, and make a brief presentation of 2-3 minutes on the topic selected. S/he may bring into the examination room a small 'prompt' card with headings and/or keywords, but should not either read a prepared script or repeat a presentation learned by heart. The examiner will then normally ask further questions with the aim of developing a conversation. This conversation will not necessarily be restricted to the initial topic for the whole period of the examination, but may diverge on to other topics.

1. ‘ Le problème de la femme a toujours été un problème d’hommes.’ Discutez.

2. Il faut défendre la francophonie. Pourquoi et comment le faire ?

3. Selon vous, l'immigration a-t-elle modifié l'identité irlandaise ? Vous comparerez la situation de l’Irlande avec celle de la France.

4. En Irlande comme en France, Barack Obama fascine. Comment peut-on expliquer cette fascination ?

5. Dans quelle mesure peut-on dire que l’institution de l’église est en crise aujourd’hui ?

6. Les nouveaux moyens de communication (sites de rencontre type Facebook, Twitter, etc.) rapprochent vraiment les gens. Discutez.

7. La violence est trop banalisée dans les médias. Discutez.