The local/target country use is interesting. In a class of somewhat reluctant learners, I found by using the local environment it was a really good initial hook and works perfectly as a starter. They love seeing their own school/area and orientating themselves. They are also using direction language in a more detailed way (they are familiar with area and so do really know the most direct, precise way to get from A to B). Also, if you are wanting to test place vocabulary, then signs and shop faces etc wont give them the vocab all too easily.

On the other hand, going to the country itself is much more authentic (target coutnry) cultural experience, gives them a feel for it and opens up exposure to lots of excellent new vocab you might not have otherwise covered (place names, Avenue Charles de Gaulle, Cordonnerie etc spring to mind from a lesson). So ultimately, I think ideally its good to focus on the foreign country.

Verdict? No need to be mutually exclusive! Local starter/intro moving on to a project/trip planning project in France? Like Simon Howell’s Slideshow above?

What are your thoughts?

What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of using learners’ local environment as opposed to one in France? (Is France well-covered in street view yet?)

I totally agree with you on the importance of practicing one’s writing skills, and to me it’s very helpful to reflect and publish – it enables one to focus and also in the process – hopefully inspire someone else and enter in a fruitful discourse.

Again, thanks for sharing.