Latest language news – August 2009

Latest language news – August 2009

Lights, camera, actionBrush up on your language skills and learn about French film on a course at the Institut de D�veloppement et d’Enseignement M�diterran�en (IDEM) in southwest France. The arts college, based in the village of Le Soler just outside Perpignan, has a new three-month course starting in September that combines intensive French lessons with the study of film and a work placement. “The course will suit young people in the middle of a sandwich degree through to mature students wishing to further their language skills while updating their technical and creative skills,” says IDEM Director Christine Rey. Tel: (Fr) 4 68 66 01 51 or visit www.idemenseignement.fr for further information. Language foundationsUnderstanding the nuts and bolts of French grammar is an essential part of mastering the language but it can also be one of the most difficult to get to grips with. The new Talk French Grammar book, priced at �7.99, offers learners jargon-free explanations to help you understand the structure of the French language and includes practical activities to reinforce the points covered in each chapter.Visit www.bbcactive.com/languages/french for further details. Learn the lingoOne of the best ways to pick up French is to socialise with native speakers in an informal setting. Blablabylone is a language association based in the heart of Bordeaux that encourages mixing with fellow language learners to not only improve fluency but also discover other cultures. The meetings take place at Le Chat Gourmand restaurant on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and cost €25 including drinks, cakes and teaching. Tel: (Fr) 6 19 42 37 66 or visit www.blablabylone.com for more information. On the goThe Talking Translator is a pocket-sized device packed with useful phrases to help you when on the move. Select what you want to say from categories such as restaurants and sightseeing, and the Talking Translator reads it out in the language you choose. The translator , RRP �39.99, features 705 commonly used phrases. www.iwantoneofthose.com