Part 1: Lesson (1 hour)

Introduction of a specific cultural theme (e.g. greetings, punctuality, meals).

Explanation of vocabulary, expressions and behaviors related to the theme.

Example theme: The relationship to politeness (informal vs. formal, common expressions of politeness).

Educational tools: Slideshow, paper support, videos.

AND HOW DO WE DO IT IN FRANCE?

In France, the work environment can be formal, but there is a clear distinction between professional and personal life.

Cultural Code: Respecting schedules is crucial, and lunch breaks are often long (about an hour). The hierarchy within the company is respected.

📌 The essentials

Here are some important words for this lesson.
Look. Listen. Repeat.
These words will help you speak and understand.

• a colleague
• a boss
• a job
• a contract
• the timetables
• a break
• a meeting
• a task
• be on time
• finish your work

💼 French Course – The World of Work

Discover the vocabulary and expressions related to work and business

💬 I. Dialogue - First day of work

Gaëtan is an accountant. He has just been hired at a new company. He is starting his first day of work. His team leader, Marc, welcomes him.

The team leader: Let me show you to your office. Follow me. This is Claire, the receptionist. Claire, this is Mr. Henry.

The receptionist: Delighted to meet you.

Gaëtan: Delighted.

The team leader: There's a photocopier here that you can use whenever you need it. And here's the supply cabinet. You can help yourself to it too. Everything is at your disposal.

Gaëtan: Okay. Thank you very much.

The team leader: And there you have it, your office.

Gaëtan: It's not very far from yours.

The team leader: Yes, it's more convenient for working together. If you have any questions or problems, I'm right here. Don't hesitate to ask.

Gaëtan: Noted. Thank you very much.

The team leader: Okay, I'll let you get settled. We can't waste any time. We have a project to complete. It needs to be finished before this weekend.

❓ II. Comprehension Questions

Questions about dialogue

1. Where is Gaëtan?

2. Who is hosting him?

3. How long has he been working at this company?

Answers

1. In the new company where he works.

2. His team leader.

3. It's his first day.

📚 III. Vocabulary and expressions

💬 Questions about the profession

What do you do for a living?

What is your job?

What is your profession?

I work as a teacher

I am employed in a bank

🖨️ Office Equipment

A supply cabinet

An office

A photocopier

A position

👥 People and hierarchy

A colleague

A receptionist

The chief

The boss

The hierarchy

📊 Work and organization

A file

A break

💡 IV. Cultural Notes

The world of work in France

💼 Using formal address at work

In France, the formal "vous" is generally used with superiors and colleagues one doesn't know well. The informal "tu" is used with close colleagues.

🤝 The introductions

When introducing someone, we generally use "Let me introduce you to..." followed by the person's name. The common response is "Pleased to meet you" or "Delighted to meet you".

⏰ Punctuality

Punctuality is very important in the French professional environment. Arriving on time for meetings and respecting deadlines are signs of professionalism.

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