Introduction: As French teachers, we continuously seek engaging and educational resources to captivate our students and enrich their learning experience. One such resource is the film "Les Choristes" (The Chorus), a heartwarming drama that beautifully depicts themes of music, redemption, and the transformative power of education. This film not only entertains but also provides profound lessons on compassion, resilience, and the impact of a dedicated teacher. In this blog, we'll explore the film's themes, its educational value, and how you can effectively integrate it into your classroom using the FilmArobics process.
Exploring the Film: "Les Choristes," directed by Christophe Barratier and released in 2004, takes viewers into the world of a strict boarding school for troubled boys in post-World War II France. The film follows Clément Mathieu, a failed musician who becomes a supervisor at the school. Through his unconventional teaching methods and passion for music, he forms a choir that brings hope and change to the boys. The film’s emotional depth, powerful performances, and enchanting soundtrack make it an excellent tool for teaching French language and culture.
Main Themes and Educational Value: The film is rich with themes that are both universal and deeply connected to the transformative power of education:
- Music and Transformation: The film emphasizes the healing and transformative power of music, providing a platform for discussing the impact of the arts on personal growth and well-being.
- Compassion and Resilience: The story highlights the importance of compassion and understanding in education, offering a gateway to discussions about empathy, resilience, and the role of teachers in shaping lives.
- Historical Context: The film’s setting in post-World War II France provides a rich cultural and historical backdrop for exploring societal changes and educational practices of the time.
Using the FilmArobics Process: The FilmArobics process offers a structured approach to integrating films into language lessons. Here’s how you can use it effectively with "Les Choristes":
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Pre-Viewing Activities:
- Vocabulary Building: Introduce key vocabulary from the film to ensure students can follow the story.
- Context Setting: Provide background information about post-World War II France, the role of music in education, and the significance of the film’s historical setting.
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Viewing Activities:
- Comprehension Checks: Pause the film at intervals to ask comprehension questions and ensure students are following the plot.
- Discussion Prompts: Encourage students to discuss the characters' motivations, the setting, and the themes as they watch.
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Post-Viewing Activities:
- Cultural Notes: Explore the cultural and historical elements depicted in the film, such as the educational system and societal norms in post-war France.
- Communicative Tasks: Engage students in role-plays or debates based on scenarios from the film to practice their speaking skills.
- Writing Exercises: Assign essays or creative writing tasks that allow students to express their reflections on the film's themes.
Key Dates for Classroom Integration: To enrich your lessons further, consider aligning your activities with significant dates related to the film:
- March 20: International Day of Happiness - Reflect on the joy and transformation music brings in the film.
- April 12: Anniversary of the film's release - Discuss the film's impact and legacy.
- June 21: World Music Day - Celebrate the power of music as depicted in the film.
- October 5: World Teachers' Day - Highlight the film’s portrayal of a dedicated teacher making a difference.
Conclusion: Incorporating "Les Choristes" into your French language curriculum offers a unique opportunity to engage students with authentic cultural content. This film not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for themes of music, redemption, and the transformative power of education. By utilizing the lesson plan crafted by FilmArobics, you can provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. Encourage your students to explore the rich tapestry of personal growth, resilience, and the impact of music and education. Purchase "Les Choristes" today and enrich your classroom with this inspiring film.
