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, it is common to consult a doctor for an illness.

Cultural Code: The French are accustomed to discussing their health with professionals and are not afraid to seek medical help as soon as they are sick. The healthcare system is accessible and widely appreciated.

📌 The essentials

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

• an illness
• a cold
• the flu
• a cough
• fever
• a headache
• a stomach ache
• pain
• an injury
• an infection

🏥 French Lesson – Types of Diseases

Discover the vocabulary and expressions related to health and doctor's visits

💬 I. Dialogue - Consultation with the doctor

Jonathan fell in the street. He is going to the doctor.

The doctor: Hello young man, how are you?

Jonathan: Well, to tell you the truth… Not very well, doctor.

The doctor: Tell me, what's wrong?

Jonathan: I fell this morning. My ankle hurts a lot.

The doctor: Let me see that. Oh yes, it's a little swollen. Does it hurt when I touch it there?

Jonathan: Yes, very much.

The doctor: Have you taken any medication since then?

Jonathan: No, I didn't take anything.

The doctor: Very well. I'll write you a prescription for an X-ray. While you wait for the X-ray and the results, I'll write you a prescription. Do you have pain anywhere else?

Jonathan: I've had a bit of a migraine since my fall. And my knees hurt.

The doctor: I'm prescribing you an anti-inflammatory to take after each meal. If your condition doesn't improve within four days, come back. I'll prescribe something else.

Jonathan: Understood. Thank you very much.

❓ II. Comprehension Questions

Questions about dialogue

1. Where is Jonathan going?

2. Why is he going there?

3. How is Jonathan feeling?

Answers

1. He goes to the doctor.

2. Because he fell in the street.

3. He doesn't feel very well.

📚 III. Medical Vocabulary and Expressions

🤕 Injuries and accidents

A sprain

Feeling like vomiting

Food poisoning

🤒 Common symptoms

A headache

A migraine

A cough

Runny nose

Sneezing

Nausea

Having a sore throat

Having a stomach ache

🏥 Diseases

A cold

Gastroenteritis

Diarrhea

Tonsillitis

Rhinopharyngitis

Pharyngitis

Chickenpox

Allergies

Asthma

Eczema

⚠️ Serious illnesses

Diabetes

Cancer

HIV

A tumor

💡 IV. Cultural Notes

The healthcare system in France

🏥 The medical consultation

In France, you generally make an appointment with your doctor. In case of emergency, you can go to the hospital emergency room. The general practitioner is often the first point of contact with the healthcare system.

💊 The prescription

The doctor writes a prescription for the medication. This prescription is necessary to purchase certain medications at the pharmacy. Social Security reimburses part of the cost.

📋 Additional Examination

The doctor may prescribe further tests such as an X-ray, blood test or MRI to establish an accurate diagnosis.

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