Students are being offered a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the richness of French culture this summer, without having to leave Galway. The experience comes as part of French language camps being run by Ros Geal University Residence.
“For a fraction of the cost of a two week trip to France, students are being given a chance to improve their language skills while building friendships with French students and gaining an appreciation for the French way of life,” said Margaret Meagher, Ros Geal manager.
“Most language teachers agree that the best way for anyone to learn a language is through constant interaction with native speakers and total immersion in the culture, which is what we aim to do.” The camps are designed for pre-junior cycle and pre-leaving certificate students who wish to develop their oral and written communication skills.
The two week camp combines three hours of French class a day and personal tutoring, with fun cultural activities in the afternoon - all conducted through the medium of French.
Participants try their hand at traditional French cuisine, take part in a city-wide scavenger hunt, enjoy French cinema and drama, and joined French students for guided excursions around the county.
The highlight for parents is the talent show students put on at the end of the camp, which allows them to witness first hand the progress their daughters had made.
Ms Meagher remembers the shock of one parent who told her she thought her daughter would never open her mouth in French!
“The course was definitely a success,” Ms Meagher said, “I could see the students’ confidence growing all the time, and the show they put on at the end of the two weeks was proof of this. Parents couldn’t believe the transformation.”
There are two camps one for pre-Junior Cert June 7-18, and pre-Leaving Cert 21st June 21– July 2 from 10.00am to 4.00pm. The cost for the two week camp is €320.
For more information, contact Margaret on 091 524524. Ros Geal University Residence, 19 University Road, Galway or email [email protected]
