French Language Learning (M.A.)
The Program in Language Learning and Teaching reflects a long-standing commitment by the department to the preparation of language teachers and to research in language learning theory and methodology. The M.A. degree combines the study of French language, literature and/ or civilization with the study of theoretical issues in second language learning and teaching.
Candidates for this degree must complete a total of 32 hours as follows:
- 16 hours in French civilization, language, and/or literature (excluding French 413 and 414), at least two of which must be at the 500 level.
- 8 hours in second language learning and teaching chosen from current Department of French offerings, e.g., French 460, 481, 482, 563, 581, 543 (when topic appropriate), excluding French 505.
- 8 hours of electives in an appropriate related area or areas chosen with the approval of an advisor. Related areas include, but are not limited to, the following: applied linguistics, psycholinguistics, testing and measurement, computer-aided instruction. Candidates with no prior background in linguistics should include Linguistics 500.
- Remedial work in French syntax may also be required of candidates who show deficiencies in this area upon entering the program. In addition to completion of course work, candidates will be required to pass a comprehensive written and oral examination during their last semester of study, demonstrating a satisfactory level of communicative competence in French and the ability to integrate effectively their knowledge of French language, literature, and culture in developing a philosophy and practice of teaching.
The Master of Arts in French Language Learning does not lead to certification for Illinois public secondary school teaching. Candidates who seek this certification may meet requirements by completing the undergraduate program in the Teaching of French, or its equivalent, in addition to the requirements for the graduate program described above.
Candidates are strongly urged to keep in close touch with their advisor. Any French Language Learning candidate who is considering continuation for the Ph.D. in Second Language Learning/Teaching (SLATE) should also consult with an appropriate advisor to determine what additional work may be required.
Comprehensive Examination
No later than the mid-point of the semester preceding the final semester of course work, the candidate should consult with his or her advisor for purposes of establishing an Examination Committee. This Committee shall consist of three members of the regular faculty: one member shall represent the area of second language learning, the other two members shall represent the candidate's interest or interests within French studies. The candidate's advisor should chair the committee.
It shall be the responsibility of the Committee to prepare a comprehensive written and oral examination based on a list of readings from the candidate's areas of study, selected by Committee members in consultation with the candidate. The examination will be approximately four hours in length and will include:
- a written discussion in French of the stylistic expression and/or cultural context of a selected French passage (1 hour)
- a written discussion of some aspect of second language acquisition theory (1 hour)
- an essay bearing on one or more aspects of teaching French culture, language and/or literature (1 hour)
- an oral interview based on all of the above (1 hour)
Parts of both the written and oral portions of the examination will be conducted in French as a means of evaluating the candidate's communicative competence in written and spoken French. The examination cannot normally be administered during a Summer Session. Students wishing to apply to the doctoral program should take the MA examination no later than February during their second year.