Translate and interpret texts, compare own translation to classmates’, and consider why there might be differences in interpretation and how language reflects elements of culture
Elaborations
interpreting phrases and expressions that do not translate literally (for example, à tout à l’heure, pas de quoi, courage), identifying similar English expressions and considering possible consequences of the lack of equivalence in terms of intercultural communication
translating written expressions associated with politeness and social protocols in French (for example, responding to requests or thanks, or signing postcards or birthday cards: je vous en prie, Madame; amitiés; je t’embrasse très fort…) and comparing with typical expressions in similar messages in English
using and evaluating translation resources such as electronic translators and print and digital dictionaries, including monolingual French dictionaries, using prompt questions such as: Does this represent the exact meaning? What other ways could this be interpreted?
collecting examples of faux amis (for example, assister à, demander, un médecin, extra, sympathique) and of inaccurate translations of public signs or notices
becoming increasingly aware of the fact that some words and expressions cannot be translated and are used in their original form in other languages (for example, ‘nuance’, ‘chic’, ‘silhouette’), and considering the impact of word borrowing on the style and effect of communication
