Innovative treatment of grammar Structures are presented in the context of authentic communicative use of the langua≥ i.e., the periphrastic future (aller plus the infinitive) is not the notional equivalent of the inflected future ( le futur simple ), and this distinction is clearly made in the presentation and in practice activities. Grammar treatments, reflecting the spoken language, make important generalizations about the structure of French. A cyclical syllabus offers practical, accessible instruction of grammar with an emphasis on realistic, everyday language The refined syllabus of Chez nous , 4/e allows instructors to focus on frequent, simpler language first, while more complex structures-such as adjectives or passé composé-are presented, reviewed, and expanded upon gradually in a variety of realistic and authentic contexts. A process approach to developing proficiency in all four skills Students build useful, transferable skills and strategies for independent learning and future language studies through a refined process approach that puts explicit strategies into practice from preview to follow-up. A uniquely interactive and expansive cultural perspective embraces metropolitan France and the Francophone world Instead of simply presenting information, students "discover" elements of French and Francophone life through photos, video clips and/or authentic documents, and discuss what they see, hear, and read. Permeating the entire program, this integrative, inductive approach increases students' ability to use French effectively, their appreciation for diversity, their understanding of multiple perspectives and their ability to reflect on their own culture.

No other program offers coverage as interactive, as broad or as in-depth as Chez nous . Innovative pronunciation instruction The fourth edition's accessible yet thorough treatment of pronunciation surpasses that of other introductory programs. Linked to the program's coverage of grammar and vocabulary, pronunciation instruction in Chez nous highlights differences between English and French, explains how sound and intonation contrasts lead to differences in meaning, and offers practical tips for improving pronunciation and spelling. Emphasis on authentic materials and tasks The fourth edition uses a wider variety of authentic texts, including more literary texts and samples of authentic discourse, as the basis for language learning: listening activities and models for speaking derived primarily from unscripted samples of native speech; a wide range of readings and writing tasks model appropriate sty≤ and literary texts representing many periods, genres, and well-known Francophone writers. A careful progression of practice Practice throughout Chez nous , 4/e follows a careful sequence from skill-getting to skill-using activities. Instructors will find a wealth of classroom-tested practice including many well-developed activities for pairs, small groups, and whole-class participation. Additionally, to increase the compatibility of the program with the National Standards, exercises and activities have been revised or added so that proficiency in all five Cs is nurtured.