Donnerstag, 20.02.2025, 1. – 5. Stunde, in der Aula: Schiller-Bundestagswahl
Bienvenue!! French as a first and second foreign language

A crêpe or rather a galette?
Those who know the difference clearly have an advantage!

As one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, French offers you not only practical benefits but also cultural richness and numerous opportunities for the future.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your "suitcase" and join us at Schiller-Gymnasium to embark on a linguistic and cultural journey together—and quite literally at that.

Our journey begins with learning French as a foreign language in the 7th grade (as a 1st or 2nd foreign language) and can be continued up to the Abitur (German high school diploma).

Students in the SESB (State European School Berlin) branch take French as their 1st foreign language in the 7th grade, while students in the regular classes take it as their 2nd foreign language. Additionally, if there is sufficient demand, there is also the possibility for students in regular classes to choose French as their 1st foreign language.

French remains a fixed part of the curriculum for all students until the 10th grade. In the 10th grade, we also offer an elective French course, which provides excellent preparation for the upper secondary level and facilitates the transition. Whether they choose the basic or advanced course—in the upper secondary level, our students have the opportunity to deepen their French at a higher level and prepare intensively for the Abitur.

For teaching, we use both modern and proven educational materials: In the lower secondary level, all classes work with the textbook A Plus! from Cornelsen. In the 10th grade, both in the SESB branch and for classes with French as the 1st foreign language, the book Transition from Klett is used.

Lesson Schedule

French

Weekly hours per grade level

7

8

9

10

French  (1st foreign language)

3

3

3

3

French (2nd foreign language)

4

4

3

3

French as an elective subject

--------------

-------------

------------

2

Activities in the Department

At Schiller Gymnasium, the language is not just learned, it’s lived!
We offer a variety of exciting activities that immerse our students directly into the world of French language and culture. From student exchanges to thrilling language projects!

Student Exchanges:

  • Bagnolet near Paris (8th grade)
  • Two high schools in Paris (10th grade)
  • Switzerland (Advanced and Basic Courses – Q1/2)

We also support individual exchanges through the Brigitte-Sauzay and Voltaire programs, which provide opportunities for valuable experiences in French-speaking countries.

Additionally, the following activities are regularly organized:

  • European Day of Languages: Celebrate the diversity of languages and cultures in Europe with us!
  • DELF-integrated in the 10th grade: In cooperation with the Institut Français, our students can obtain the internationally recognized DELF diploma.
  • Berlin European Parliament at the French Gymnasium (Upper Secondary): An exciting simulation of the European Parliament in three languages (German, English, and French).
  • Activities for Franco-German Day: We celebrate Franco-German friendship.
  • Prix des Lycéens (Upper Secondary - Advanced Course): Participate in this literature competition and vote for the best French young adult novel!
  • Participation in the Federal Foreign Languages Competition: Show your skills in French and compete against other schools.
  • Excursions: Whether at the Cinéfête at the Institut Français or on Franco-German Discovery Day, French comes to life outside the classroom too.
  • French Conversation Club: We also offer a study group—perfect for anyone who wants to deepen their language skills and prepare for the DELF diploma.

Dive into the world of French with us and experience the fun and adventure that French at Schiller-Gymnasium has to offer!

Contact teacher: K. Gardille gardille@schiller-gymnasium.eu