Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - FREN 424 D100

Topics in French Linguistics (3)

L2 Phonetics

Class Number: 4788

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    FREN 275 and FREN 301W and at least one 300-level FREN linguistics course.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The subject matter will vary according to faculty and student interests. Selected aspects of French linguistic theories as they apply to the study, teaching and/or learning of French.

COURSE DETAILS:

Special Topic: L2 Phonetics

The Acquisition of Second Language Pronunciation
How do learners develop the perceptual and articulatory skills required to produce and interpret the sounds, rhythm, and intonation of French as a second language? This course investigates the cognitive and phonological mechanisms that shape the acquisition of French phonology in adult learners, with particular attention to the challenges posed by unfamiliar phonemic contrasts and prosodic patterns. Through theoretical perspectives and empirical research, students will explore how second-language sound systems are internalized and how learners progress toward more native-like pronunciation in French.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This course aims to enable students to:
• understand the process of acquiring phonological systems in a second or foreign language
• identify the sources of difficulty involved in learning a new phonological system
• understand what causes the perception of a foreign accent
• reflect on a detailed yet realistic pronunciation-teaching strategy that allows learners to reduce this accent
• evaluate the linguistic and social issues related to acquiring a new phonological system
• improve their knowledge of contemporary French

Grading

  • Travaux d'application (2) 30%
  • Célébration d'apprentissage mi-trimestre 30%
  • Célébration d'apprentissage finale 40%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Aucun volume n'est nécesaire. Les articles nécessaires seront fournis aur Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

 

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.