French Reference Grammar – A complete Handbook of the French Language
Lecture Primaire Interactive, Reading Practice for beginners
|
French Reference Grammar – A complete Handbook of the French Language |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lecture Primaire Interactive, Reading Practice for beginners |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pocket Oxford Dictionary with Talking Chinese Dictionary and Instant Translator |
|
|
|
|
|
Oxford Pop-up French, Spanish, German Dictionary Shelf (CD Rom) |
|
|
|
|
|
Author: Daniel J. Calvez
Publisher: NTC, Illinois
ISBN: 0-8442-1497-3
This is a comprehensive guide to French grammar. It is clearly laid out, with useful charts and a variety of fonts which make reading the various explanations easy. The order in which grammar points are presented is logical, and both the contents page and the index are easy to use and comprehensive.
This grammar book is very detailed and could be overawing for the complete beginner. A more advanced learner would find it extremely useful. They are probably aware of the basics and this book goes into depth of detail on every point, without becoming a work that is too dry or academic.
This paperback book is quite large, so is probably more suitable for using in a study than carrying about in a handbag or briefcase.
Recommended: Post GCSE, European Passport Level B1 or Undergraduate
|
|
Author: Richard Parson
Publisher: CGP, 2000, Broughton-in-Furness
ISBN: 1-8414-6802-9
This is a comprehensive French revision guide. It is clearly laid out, with useful charts, a variety of fonts and coloured highlighting which make reading the various explanations easy. The order in which linguistic topics and points are presented is logical, and both the contents page and the index are easy to use and comprehensive. It conforms with the requirements of the GCSE exams offered by AQA, Edexcel and OCR.
The information is detailed but not threatening for those who do not find learning languages easy. Yet the learner is not spoon fed. They are required to make up their own examples of language. A talented, enthusiastic linguist would want to supplement this with a detailed grammar book and medium-sized dictionary.
This paperback is sturdy but light. It is A4 format and would sit comfortably in a school bag.
Recommended: Able learner in KS3 / GCSE / European Passport Level B1
|
|
Publisher: HarperCollins, 2003, Glasgow
ISBN: 0-0071-2633-6
This is a comprehensive French dictionary containing over 160,000 references and 180,000 translations. It is clearly laid out, with the useful highlighting of key words. It is compatible with the main British exam boards. It also has a well presented section on grammar and sample letters, emails and phone language. The co-operation between Robert and HarperCollins has lead to the production of a reliable, useful dictionary.
This dictionary contains a little more than a good GCSE candidate requires. However, because it is “concise” there is not too much information for the enthusiastic learner.
This hardback book is quite large, so is probably more suitable for using in a study than carrying about in a handbag or briefcase.
Recommended: Post GCSE / European Passport Level B1 + / Undergraduate
|
|
Chief editors: Nicholas Rollin, Jean Benoit Ormal-Grenon
Publisher: Oxford University Press, May 2005
ISBN: 0-1986-1045-9
This dictionary, the fourth edition, has been completely updated to include 40,000 words and phrases and 60,000 translations. Even though the dictionary is small, it contains an extensive list of irregular verbs, a detailed menu section and a useful phrase-book.
The dictionary is extremely clearly laid out, with very dark ink for the word list. Genders are indicated by the use of “m” and “f”. The inclusion of in-text boxed notes makes the use of certain constructions clearer. The letters are listed on the side of the page, making the dictionary easy to use.
This dictionary would be useful to anyone studying French at any level, though advanced students would need another dictionary as well. It is a small enough to carry around in a handbag or briefcase, and its flexi-cover makes it quite durable.
Recommended: Students of Get-by, conversation and as a portable resource for students on any level
|
|
Chief editors: Marie-Hélène Corréard
Publisher: Oxford University Press, 10 August 2005
ISBN: 0-1986-1071-8
This dictionary, in its fourth edition, includes 90,000 words and phrases and 120,000 translations. There are also grammatical and cultural explanations. In the centre of the dictionary there is an A-Z of French Life and Culture, a Calendar of French traditions, festivals and holidays and advice on letter writing in French. There is an eighteen-page section on French verbs and a section on numbers at the end of the book.
The dictionary is extremely clearly laid out, with very dark ink for the word list. Genders are indicated by the use of “m” and “f”. Pronunciation is indicated by the standard phonetic alphabet. The letters are listed on the side of the page, making the dictionary easy to use.
This dictionary would be useful to anyone studying French. It is a little too large to carry in a handbag, though it would fit into a briefcase. It is light, as the cover is paperback, though this may make it less durable.
Recommended: Students up to A2 level
Approximate price: £10.99
|
|
Publisher: CGP, 2003, Kirkby in Furness 23
ISBN: 1-8414-6373-6
This is a comprehensive French revision guide. It contains descriptions of topics and practice tasks in all the four skills. It is clearly laid out. Students’ attention is drawn to exam techniques and there are many tips and hints throughout. Answers are supplied at the end and, many of the examples are presented in the same style as used by the examination boards. The book is accompanied by an audio CD of all the listening exercises.
The use of coloured charts makes this revision guide easy to use. Each topic is treated in exactly the same way – with quick questions, listening, speaking, reading, and writing practice plus a revision section. Anyone who was familiar with everything in this guide would succeed at GCSE and beyond.
This paperback book is quite large, so is probably more suitable for using at home than for carrying about in school bag.
Recommended: GCSE / European Passport Level B1+
|
|
Author: Simon Thorp / Christophe Allo
Publisher: Carel Press 2003
ISBN: 1-8723-6586-8
This reading resource contains a wealth of up to date statistics and information about France:
|
problems among young people |
|
the economy |
|
employment |
|
education |
|
the environment |
|
Europe |
|
the French-speaking world |
|
people |
|
immigration |
|
leisure |
|
politics |
|
health |
|
technology |
The resource is renewed every year, so it is easy to keep up to date. There is also a list of useful web-sites. Each section is accompanied by a group of open-ended tasks, making this a powerful tool for prompting discussion and leading to written work.
The resource has been produced with AS / A level students in mind, and would not be very significant for students below level B2 of the European Languages Portfolio.
The resource is fully photocopiable, which puts the price up slightly. Individual learners may not wish to purchase it therefore. However, it would help the student who wants material for preparing discussions, presentations and essays. It is an ideal resource for the teacher of advanced students or for the college library.
Recommended: European Languages Portfolio Level B2 + / AS / A level
Approximate price: £17.50
|
|
Author: Oliver Gray
Publisher: Revilo 2003
These reading teach and test a comprehensive range of vocabulary. The exercises are fun to complete. Some accuracy is required in filling in answers, so this also encourages good writing habits. Students can work at their own pace through the topics in which they are interested. There is a score sheet provided, so that learners can keep a check on how they are performing.
This will suit students in their first two years of studying French, but is also a good revision tool for students working at higher levels.
You do not need to install this on your computer – you just put in the CD when you wish to use it.
Recommended: Up to GCSE / Adult conversational learners / Individual learners
Approximate price: £24 single user, £94 networkable version
|
Buy this from www.revilolang.com |
|
or write to sales@revilolang.com |
|
Author: Oliver Gray
Publisher: Revilo 2003
These reading texts are comprehensive is scope, covering many of the topics for GCSE, both at higher and foundation level. They are accompanied by visuals which are authentic and interesting. Some accuracy is required in filling in answers, so this also encourages good writing habits. Students can work at their own pace through the topics in which they are interested. There is a score sheet provided, so that learner can keep a check on how they are performing.
This will suit students studying for the GCSE exam, but also learners who just wish to equip themselves with enough Spanish to go on holiday or live in Spain.
You do not need to install this on your computer – you just put in the CD when you wish to use it.
Recommended: Up to GCSE / Adult conversational learners / Individual learners
Approximate price: £24 single user, £94 networkable version
|
Buy this from www.revilolang.com |
|
or write to sales@revilolang.com |
|
Authors: Gill Ramage, Jon Meier
Publisher: Heinemann, 2003, Oxford
This is a comprehensive French course for Key Stage 3 and addresses the Framework. It comes in three parts. In Expo 1, differentiation is included in one volume. For Expo 2 and 3, there are two separate books. Each part provides pupil’s book, a resource and assessment file with CD-Rom, Teacher’s Guide, cassettes, pupil’s workbook and colour OHT file. It is possible for pupils to reach National Curriculum Level 5 by the end of Part 1.
The course makes logical progress from simple language to quite complex and extremely useful language very quickly. The pupil’s book is very visual, but does not contain images which will date too quickly. There is a useful grammar section and glossary at the back of the book.
This is a complete course. It would be difficult use one component without another. A teacher using this course would need few other resources.
Recommended: Key Stage 3
|
|
Authors: Rosemary Bevis, Martial Romanteau and Ros Hopwood
Publisher: Brilliant Publications
ISBN: 1-9038-5337-0
This consists of two CDs and a teacher’s book. The CDs, 95 minutes in total, contain 20 songs, sung by French children, instrumental tracks for 16 original songs, and mini dialogues after some of the songs. The dialogues can be used for listening comprehensions and role-plays. The book contains teacher’s notes, photocopiable illustrated song sheets, photocopiable music sheets, which include guitar chords, scripts for the mini dialogues and English translations of the songs.
The songs and the French voices are delightful. The pupil’s sheets are clear and fun. The teacher’s notes contain some good ideas. This is a superb supplementary resource for any primary course, but could also be used by pupils in Key Stage 3. Learning songs is an excellent way of reinforcing patterns of language and brings a fun element into lessons. It could even encourage pupils to make up their own songs, thereby bringing creativity into the Modern Languages classroom .
Teachers using this resource would need to get their photocopies organised well before the beginning of term and would need to think of a storage and retrieval system both for themselves and their pupil. The CDs are extremely easy to use as they are so efficiently tracked.
Recommended: Key Stage 2 / Key Stage 3 teachers
|
Buy this from www.brilliantpublications.co.uk |
|
|
Publisher: Pilote Languages
ISBN: 0-9542-4520-2
This is a fun introduction to French for young learners. It contains sections on Greetings, Places in School, Things in My Classroom, What My Teacher Says, Things in My Pencil Case, The Time Part 1 – the Hour, Number 40 - 59, The Time Part 2 – Minutes, School Subjects and My Timetable. Within each section, you can listen to a dialogue, stop the CD and hear parts again, and in some sections play a simple game. Learners can also fill in their own learning record on the “Permis de Conduire” section. Pilote Languages provide full back up from their web site, http://www.pilotelanguages.com.
The graphics are amusing. The sound quality is good. Many of the “actors” are the same age as the learners. By the time the students have mastered everything on this CD they will have taken their first steps into learning French and will already have a detailed knowledge of this language’s sound system.
The CD is ideal for both individual learners and whole classes.
Your computer should be an IBM compatible PC with CD-Rom drive, 266 Mhz or higher processor, Windows 95 or later, 64mb RAM, sound speakers or headphones and sound card, or Power Macintosh with CD-Rom Drive, System 8.6-9.2 and 64mb RAM.
Recommended: Key Stage 1 and 2 / Pre National Curriculum
Price: from £10.00 excluding VAT for an individual CD to £146.88 including VAT for a network version. School packs are also available.
|
Buy this from KETV at www.ketv.co.uk/pro-French.html |
|
Publisher: Pilote Languages
ISBN: 0-9542-4521-0
This is a fun introduction to French for young learners. It contains sections on Greetings, Names and Ages, Number up to 39, the Alphabet, Colours, Family and Pets, Days and Months, Dates, Birthdays, Christmas and Other Festivals. Within each section, you can listen to a dialogue, stop the CD and hear parts again, and in some sections play a simple game. Learners can also fill in their own learning record on the “Permis de Conduire” section. Pilote Languages provide full back up from their web site, http://www.pilotelanguages.com.
The graphics are amusing. The sound quality is good. Many of the “actors” are the same age as the learners. By the time the students have mastered everything on this CD they will have taken their first steps into learning French and will already have a detailed knowledge of this language’s sound system.
The CD is ideal for both individual learners and whole classes.
Your computer should be an IBM compatible PC with CD-Rom drive, 266 Mhz or higher processor, Windows 95 or later, 64mb RAM, sound speakers or headphones and sound card, or Power Macintosh with CD-Rom Drive, System 8.6-9.2 and 64mb RAM.
Recommended: Pre GCSE / European Passport Level A2 / any-one relocating to Wales
Price: from £10.00 excluding VAT for an individual CD to £146.88 including VAT for a network version. School packs are also available.
|
Buy this from KETV at www.ketv.co.uk/pro-French.html |
|
Authors: Bernard Grosz and Henriette Harnisch
Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton, 2003, London
ISBN: 0-3408-5638-6 (Complete pack 0-3408-5637-8)
This is a beginner’s French course which quickly takes the learner up to a high level. There are units on introducing yourself, understanding details about others, shopping, family life, restaurants, directions, weather forecasts, travelling, hotels, health and fitness, colours, and clothes. Each section contains revision activities, listening, speaking reading and writing activities, exercises one can work through with a partner, learning tips, a progress check and a glossary of what is contained in the unit. There is a glossary and grammar section at the back of the book. The learner can also access the publisher’s web-site for further support.
The layout of the book is extremely attractive and the learner can easily find their way around the material. Each section goes from a simple to a very high level of language very quickly. Once the learner has mastered everything in the course they will have a high level of skills and knowledge within the topics covered.
This book is probably best used as part of a course, where the adult learner visits a class. However, there is so much information in it that a learner who has to miss the odd lesson will be able to continue to work on their own.
Recommended: GCSE / European Passport Level B1 (though some topics are missing), all adult learners who want to achieve a lot quickly.
|
|
Author: Kathy Williams
Publisher: Brilliant Publications
ISBN: 1-9038-5302-8
This is a beginner’s French course for learners aged 7-11. There are over 60 photocopiable pupils sheets and lesson plans based on QCA guidelines in the book. The cassette contains 70 minutes of vocabulary, phrases, sentences and eight traditional songs. Content covers greetings, the classroom, seasons and weather, introducing yourself, home, birthdays, countries of the world, animals, family, food, sport, clothes and town. There is a list of key words at the back and a glossary with grammatical points. Links are made to other curriculum areas, in particular to numeracy, literacy, ICT and technology.
The pictures on the photocopiable sheets are good fun, and the children learning with this resource will have a very positive experience of French. The teacher’s notes are comprehensive and very helpful to those who are not used to teaching languages. The entire course is flexible and teachers can go as fast or as slow as they like. The material would also be very useful for running an after-school club.
The course is based on photocopiable sheets, so a school using this would need to organise in advance to avoid the teacher having to rush to the photocopy every morning. It would also be useful to provide pupils with a folder to keep their work in. Designing a cover could be a good cross-curricular activity.
Recommended: GCSE / Key Stage 2 teachers
|
Buy this from www.brilliantpublications.co.uk |
Author: Gill James
Publisher: Bridge House Languages
This is now available to purchase in electronic form ( Word Document emailed as an attachment) £2.99 or as a hard copy £6.99 – 122 pages A4 printed on a single side, ready for you to put into your own binder. Both versions allow private tutors registered with Bridge House Languages unlimited photocopying.
The course was originally designed for a 12 year-old boy, who had two years previously of one hour a week tuition, based mainly on speaking activities and games, with just a little reading. It brings a learner up to GCSE / European Passport Level B1 in one year, if used vigorously.
It offers in its main modules
|
Language learning skills |
|
Grammar |
|
Full vocabulary for the topic studied |
|
Full practice of the topic studied |
|
Reminders about working habits. |
|
A full “to do” list |
Also, there is a detailed index and an extensive section of model dialogues. Tutor’s notes are also provided.
This course will never go out of date. No reading or listening texts and only a few writing texts are provided. The tutor provides their own – mainly downloaded free form the Internet. This keeps the subject matter up to date. Guidance on this is given in the Tutors’ notes.
Recommended: A course leading to GCSE / European Passport Level B1 for students with a basic knowledge of French.
|
Buy this from www.bridgehouselanguages.com |
|
Publisher: Eclipse Books
Petit Pont is an interactive French course for primary age children. There are two levels currently available and the content fully meets QCA guidelines. Level 1 includes Meeting People, Places in Town, Brothers and Sisters, At School, Dates and Birthdays, Pets, Colours and a revision section. Ample regard is given to grammar and dictionary skills. Level 2 covers Giving Directions, Weather, Time, Parts of the Body, Sports, Snacks, Clothes, Daily Routine and a further revision section. Grammar is further extended at this level.
Components available include Pupil’s Book (48 pages), VR Interactive CD-ROM, Copymaster and Flashcards CD-ROM, Audio and Song CD, Teacher’s Guide and Domino puppet. It is possible to buy a network version of the interactive CD. All of the above are at a very reasonable price.
This course is visually stunning. It is soundly structured and the activities are balanced. It will certainly fire the imagination of the young learner and will be a joy to teach.
This is a beautifully presented course at a very reasonable price. Highly recommended!
Recommended: Primary beginners. It is suitable for one-to-one tuition or for the classroom.
RRP: Pupil’s book + Interactive CD £10.00 + VAT, Copymaster and Flashcards CD, Audio and Song CD and Teacher’s Guide £22.00 + VAT, VR Interactive CD Multi-user £120.00
|
Buy this from www.eclipsebooks.com |
|
Author: Oliver Gray
Publisher: Revilo 2003
These reading texts are comprehensive in scope, covering many of the topics for GCSE, both at higher and foundation level. Some accuracy is required in filling in answers, so this also encourages good writing habits. The style of the answers are very similar to those in the GCSE exam. Students can work at their own pace through the topics in which they are interested. There is a score sheet provided, so that learner can keep a check on how they are performing.
This will suit students studying for he GCSE exam, but also learners who just wish to equip themselves with enough German to go on holiday or business in Germany.
You do not need to install this on your computer – you just put in the CD when you wish to use it.
Recommended: Up to GCSE / Adult conversational learners / Individual learners
Approximate price: £24 single user, £94 networkable version
|
Buy this from www.revilolang.com |
|
or write to sales@revilolang.com |
|
Author: Chidolue Dagmar
Publisher: Fischer Schatzingel, 2002
ISBN: 3-5968-0366-7
This is the story of Millie’s visit to London. We see London and the whole experience of visiting a large town in a foreign country and staying in a four or five star hotel through the eyes of a young German child.
Millie makes interesting mistakes with the English language. She hears “afternoon” as the word for two animals in German, Buckingham Palace becomes Baker Baker Palace and she is very amused that the queen’s son will one day be in charge of the country but will be known by the same name as a neighbour’s dog. She has the unfortunate experience of a pigeon landing on her head at Trafalgar – or rather Trafalla – Square.
Many of Millie’s adventures will be familiar to those who have pre-school children in their families.
The language is quite easy to understand. Anyone who is working at National Curriculum level 6 or above will cope with this easily.
Recommended: National Curriculum Level 6+, European Languages Portfolio Level B1+ / AS / A level
|
|
Publisher: OUP September 2005
ISBN: 0-1986-0974-4
The latest edition of this dictionary produced by two highly-respected publishers contains 3,000 new words, and has more than 320,000 words and phrases, and 520,000 translations. It lists both the new and the old spelling of German. A new feature this time, though it is not offered with every single example of the book, is the inclusion of a free CD-Rom pronunciation guide. You type in a word or paste in text from the web, and you can hear that word spoken back to you. As well as the German-to-English and English-to-German sections, there are sample letters, telephone conversations and mobile-phone texting. There is an explanation of the German spelling reform, a grammar section and a detailed list of irregular verbs.
The dictionary is clearly set out, with the words you are looking up printed in a pleasant shade of blue. Dotted throughout the body of the dictionary are text-boxes with extra information. There are flat indexes at the side of the pages, making using this rather large tome easier to use.
It would not be easy to carry this in a briefcase and if you took it away on business on a plane, you would use up a substantial amount of your weight allowance. However, despite its size and weight, it is quite easy to use flat on a desk. It stays open where you leave it, yet the spine and cover are very sturdy.
This is for the serious student of German. It would be of use to up to postgraduate level and also useful to people who make their living partly from their knowledge of German.
Recommended: Serious language learners AS Level / European Languages Portfolio Level B2+
Approximate price: £29.99
|
|
Chief editors: M. Clark, O. Thyen
Publisher: Oxford University Press, May 2005
ISBN: 0-1986-0976-0
This dictionary, the third edition, has been completely updated to include 150,000 words and phrases and 250,000 translations. Sample letters, emails and CVs are given, along with information about text messaging, and life and culture in German-speaking countries.
The dictionary is extremely clearly laid out, with very dark ink for the word list. Genders are indicated by the use of “der”, “die” or “das”. Plurals are shown in the German to English section immediately after the noun. The inclusion of in-text boxed notes makes the use of certain constructions clearer.
This dictionary would be useful to anyone studying German at GCSE level or European Passport Level B1 and beyond, though final year students at university would probably require the full dictionary. It would make a good edition to any German classroom in Key Stage 4 and above. It is a little too heavy to carry around in a handbag or briefcase, but the serious student may well want to take it with them when they visit German-speaking countries.
Recommended: Students of GCSE or European Languages Passport Level B1 and above
|
|
Chief editors: Nicholas Rollin, Roswitha Morris, Eva Vennebusch
Publisher: Oxford University Press, May 2005
ISBN: 0-1986-1044-0
This dictionary, the fourth edition, has been completely updated to include 40,000 words and phrases and 60,000 translations. Even though the dictionary is small, it contains an extensive list of irregular verbs, a detailed menu section and a useful phrase-book.
The dictionary is extremely clearly laid out, with very dark ink for the word list. Genders are indicated by the use of “m”, “f” or “nt”. Plurals are shown in the German-to-English section immediately after the noun. The inclusion of in-text boxed notes makes the use of certain constructions clearer. The letters are listed on the side of the page, making the dictionary easy to use.
This dictionary would be useful to anyone studying German at any level, though advanced students would need another dictionary as well. It is a small enough to carry around in a handbag or briefcase, and its flexi-cover makes it quite durable.
Recommended: Students of Get-by, conversation and as a portable resource for students on any level
|
|
Editors: Mike Gonzalez, Alicia de Benito de Harland, Soledad Pérez-López, José Ramón Parrando
Publisher: HarperCollins, Glasgow 2002
ISBN: 0-0071-2291-8
This dictionary is a useful size. It has over 40,000 references and 70,000 translations. The clear blue print in the header words and the entries makes it easy to use. Entries are accompanied by phonetic spelling to aid pronunciation. It contains a small grammar section and some games and puzzles. There is some information of a cultural nature. The language is up to date.
Whilst not containing the most complex Spanish, the dictionary will still be of use to the serious learner up until their third year. Once you know everything in this dictionary, you know very much indeed.
This is a sturdy volume with a vinyl cover. It would fit easily into a handbag, briefcase or school bag. It is a popular choice for school classrooms so would be familiar to the teenage learner.
Recommended: Up to third year of serious learning / up to GCSE
|
|
Author: Esther Sanchez
Publisher: Revilo 2003
These reading texts are comprehensive is scope, covering many of the topics for GCSE, both at higher and foundation level. Some accuracy is required in filling in answers, so this also encourages good writing habits. Students can work at their own pace through the topics in which they are interested. There is a score sheet provided, so that learner can keep a check on how they are performing.
This will suit students studying for the GCSE exam, but also learners who just wish to equip themselves with enough Spanish to go on holiday or live in Spain.
You do not need to install this on your computer – you just put in the CD when you wish to use it.
Recommended: Up to GCSE / Adult conversational learners / Individual learners
Approximate price: £24 single user, £94 networkable version
|
Buy this from www.revilolang.com |
|
or write to sales@revilolang.com |
|
Author: Carolyn Burch
Publisher: OUP, 2003
ISBN: 0-1991-2403-5
This work book contains over 73 pages of exercises on basic but detailed grammar. It covers:
|
Nouns |
|
Determiners |
|
Adjectives |
|
Adverbs |
|
Prepositions |
|
Conjunctions |
|
Pronouns |
|
Main tenses of verbs |
|
Irregular verb forms |
There is also a general revision section, some more complex matters for A2 students and the answers to all of the exercises.
As only a brief description of the grammar is given, this resource possibly best suits those learners who already have a good understanding of Spanish grammar, and who want to consolidate their understanding. It is designed for the post GCSE student and suits that classification well.
The book would sit comfortably in a brief case or rucksack, so could be taken to and from college. The print is very clear, and the layout is helpful.
Recommended: Post GCSE / European Passport B2+ / Individual learners / College / Continuing Education / Adult Education centres
|
|
Editor: Jeremy Butterfield
Publisher: HarperCollins
ISBN: 0-0071-6259-6
This is a comcise but comprehensive guide to Spanish grammar, with an emphasis on verbs. It is clearly laid out, with useful charts and a variety of fonts which make reading the various explanations easy. Both the contents page and the index are easy to use and comprehensive.
Although this grammar book is very detailed, the amount of information would not be overawing for a relativley new learner. Certainly, anyone who had understood and absorbed all the points presented would have enough knowledge to tackle GCSE or even AS or A level. This paperback book is small, and would fit easily into a handbag, briefcase, school bag or pocket.
Recommended: GCSE / European Passport Level B1 / AS level
|
|
Editors: Carol Styles Carvajal, Jane Horwood, Nicholas Rollin
Publisher: Oxford University Press 2004
ISBN: 0-1986-0977-9
This dictionary has been completely updated to contain over 170,000 words and phrases and 240,000 translations. It also contains sample letters, CVs and guidance on text-messaging. There are notes on the life and culture of Spanish-speaking countries today. 138 irregular Spanish verbs and a detailed pronunciation guide are included.
The dictionary is remarkably well laid out. The main word is in a pleasant blue ink, with variables printed in a bold black easy-to-read font. Many current phrases have been included – such as rate tart, stealth tax and bioterrorism.
This dictionary will suit the serious student, but will hardly be the sort of book they wish to carry about with them. It would sit comfortably in a study, a classroom or a library. It is also available as a CD and could be stored on a laptop for more mobile use.
Recommended: Classroom or library copy / serious GCSE students / A-level / individual learners / early or subsidiary university
Approximate price: £18.99
|
|
Chief editors: Nicholas Rollin, Carol Styles Carvajal
Publisher: Oxford University Press, May 2005
ISBN: 0-1986-1043-2
This dictionary, the fourth edition, has been completely updated to include 40,000 words and phrases and 60,000 translations. Even though the dictionary is small, it contains an extensive list of irregular verbs, a detailed menu section and a useful phrase-book.
The dictionary is extremely clearly laid out, with very dark ink for the word list. Genders are indicated by the use of “m” and “f”. The inclusion of in-text boxed notes makes the use of certain constructions clearer. The letters are listed on the side of the page, making the dictionary easy to use.
This dictionary would be useful to anyone studying Spanish at any level, though advanced students would need another dictionary as well. It is a small enough to carry around in a handbag or briefcase, and its flexi-cover makes it quite durable.
Recommended: Students of Get-by, conversation and as a portable resource for students on any level
|
|
Chief editors: Nicholas Rollin, Carol Styles Carvajal, Jane Horwood
Publisher: Oxford University Press, 10 August 2005
ISBN: 0-1986-1072-6
This dictionary, in its fourth edition, includes 90,000 words and phrases and 120,000 translations. There are also grammatical and cultural explanations. In the centre of the dictionary there is an A-Z of Spanish Life and Culture, a Calendar of Hispanic traditions, festivals and holidays and advice on letter writing in Spanish. There is an eighteen-page section on Spanish verbs and a section on numbers at the end of the book.
The dictionary is extremely clearly laid out, with very dark ink for the word list. Genders are indicated by the use of “m” and “f”. Pronunciation is indicated by the standard phonetic alphabet. The letters are listed on the side of the page, making the dictionary easy to use.
This dictionary would be useful to anyone studying Spanish. It is a little too large to carry in a handbag, though it would fit into a briefcase. It is light, as the cover is paperback, though this may make it less durable.
Recommended: Students up to A2 level
Approximate price: £10.99
|
|
Publisher: Authentik
This magazine for beginners in Spanish is published in three issues a year in September, January and March. Optionally, it can be ordered with an accompanying cassette. Each magazine contains simple grammar and vocabulary exercises. There are heaps of colourful, authentic pictures, many of which lead to cultural insights. There are short, easily understandable articles, which resemble the type of articles the reader would be used to seeing in a magazine. There are ample glossaries to help the student and some web links. Each magazine is accompanied by a pull-put teacher’s section.
The magazines are high quality and very colourful. They feel very authentic to the reader. Students can begin to read for pleasure even if their reading skills are still quite low. They may still need a fair amount of guidance from teachers, especially if they are in the very first year of learning, but their confidence will grow.
Level 1 includes such topics as People and Talking, Directions, Food, Eating and Drinking, Family Relationships, Telling Time, Numbers One to a Hundred, Clothing and Dress, Vehicles, Furniture, Clothing and Instruments, Shapes, Colours and Locations, and offers more than 250 hours of instruction in Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing.
Level 2 includes such topics as Greetings and Conversations, Travel, Transportation and Transactions, Shopping and Dining Out, Asking Questions, Forms of Address, The Weather and Clothing, Office Activities and Terminology, Common Social Conventions, Calendar Conventions, The Five Senses, Sickness and Health, and offers more than 300 hours of accelerated study for intermediate learners.
Both levels include speech recognition, systematic structure, previews, exercises and tests.
Classroom editions also include a student study guide, quizzes and tests, and there is a Student Management System available.
The courses have high quality images and the learner is guided in simple stages through a series of tasks, so that they gradually learn quite complex structures without confusions or overload.
One of the most important features of these courses is that they can be accessed anywhere. You can use the CDs in a laptop, and of course, if you use the on-line version, you can access it from anywhere where you can use an Internet connection. You can work completely at your own pace through the materials.
Recommended: Level 1 will be a good supplement for a good grade GCSE / Level B1 European Languages Passport and would work as a good stand-alone resource for anyone learning for conversational purposes. Level 2 would lead towards Level B2 of the European Languages Passport, and would greatly increase confidence for those students who have basic mastery of the particular language.
Approximate price: £14 (magazine subscription), £32 (cassette subscription)
|
Buy this from www.authentik.ie/claro.html |
|
Publisher: BBC, London 2003
ISBN: 0-5634-7107-7
This 140 minute audio course covers situations which the visitor to a Spanish speaking country may encounter on holiday:
|
Greetings |
|
Transactions at the airport |
|
Taking a taxi |
|
Booking accommodation |
|
Ordering drinks and snacks in the cafeteria |
|
Getting around town |
|
Going shopping |
|
Buying stamps |
|
Eating in a restaurant |
|
Going to a night club |
|
Chatting to people |
|
Talking about arrival times on the phone. |
This would help anyone who had no Spanish at all and wanted to learn enough to survive on holiday. A small printed booklet supplements the CDs. It is a useful reinforcement for those studying for the oral GCSE exam, but does not cover everything.
The CDs could obviously be used in the car or whilst one is pottering about in the house or the garden. The phrase book is small enough to fit into a pocket. The course is also available on cassette.
Recommended: Beginners / European Passport Level A1 / Pre GCSE
|
|
Author: Rosa María Martin
Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2004
ISBN: 0-1986-0915-9
This is a beginner’s Spanish course which quickly takes the learner up to a high level. There are chapters on:
|
finding the way |
|
shopping |
|
talking about yourself |
|
home and family |
|
the time |
|
eating out |
|
using public transport |
|
people |
|
free time |
|
talking about the past |
|
making plans |
|
the world of work |
|
health and fitness. |
Each topic is divided into units. Every unit contains:
|
a model dialogue |
|
a list of vocabulary |
|
a language building section which deals with grammar and structure |
|
some speaking exercises. |
There is a test at the end of each topic, and a review section at the end of topics three, seven, ten and fourteen.
The main CDs contain five hours of audio content. There is an extra CD which is designed to be used anywhere – for instance, in the car. The front cover of the manual shows how the CDs are tracked. The transcript of the dialogues are contained within the sub-sections of the topics. Also included in the pack is a useful book which contains a user-friendly word list and phrase book.
The whole course is extremely easy to use. If the tasks are followed through as suggested in the introduction, the learner will progress rapidly from complete beginner to the upper end of European Passport Level A2. The learner can relax, just moving on to the next section when they are ready. The course will guide them. The inclusion of the last two topics make this a good foundation for later study at GCSE level.
This resource is ideal for the learner who is obliged, or who prefers, to work alone. They do not need a teacher as well. The packaging is sturdy, so it will travel well. Also, the Travel Dictionary and Phrase Book will fit comfortably in a handbag or briefcase.
Recommended: European Passport Level A2, all adult learners who want to achieve a lot quickly and who work alone.
|
|
Publisher: www.berlitzpublishing.com
ISBN: 9-8124-6337-2
This phrase book contains sections on
|
basic expressions |
|
accommodations |
|
eating out |
|
travel |
|
sightseeing |
|
leisure |
|
making friends |
|
stores |
|
services and health. |
There is also a dictionary section and a reference section containing numbers, days, months, dates, greetings, public holidays, time maps, quick reference and emergency. There is just a little grammatical explanation in each section. Each topic starts with some essential cultural information. Key phrases in each topic also show pronunciation.
Each section is colour-coded, so it is easy to find the topic you want while you are out and about. As well as giving phrases the learner may wish to use, the phrase book also contains language that they may need to recognise. This is contained in separate boxes. There are pictures of a car, a bike and a motorbike, usefully labelled in Portuguese.
The phrase book is small enough to fit in a pocket, handbag or briefcase, so can easily be used all the time while one is abroad. It is ideal for the tourist or business traveller. It will enhance any course, as, though it is small, it contains a large amount of very useful language.
Recommended: Students of Get-by, conversation and as a portable resource for students on any level
Approximate price: £4.99
|
|
Publisher: Oxford University Press 2004
ISBN: 0-1986-1002-5
This dictionary contains more than 240,000 words, phrases and meaning. New in this edition are spoken pronunciations for more than 50,000 headwords, hundreds of extra notes offering help with grammar, punctuation and usage, and interactive games, such as Anagrams, Baffle, Conundrum and Scramble. Appendices include factual information about currencies, countries, presidents and prime ministers.
There are many up-to-the-minute expressions, and these, alongside the scientific, technical, World English, rare, historical and archaic terms, mean that the vocabulary supplied by the dictionary is very rich indeed.
It is extremely easy to install on a computer. Once installed, it is very easy to use. There are great advantages to having your dictionary always to hand on your computer.
Recommended: This dictionary will suit the serious student. It would be extremely useful to the intermediate or advanced student of English as a second language, or any student of any subject at GCSE and beyond. It is also a good, standard, family dictionary.
System Requirements: PC with minimum Pentium class processor; Windows 98, ME NT4, XP or 2000; 64 MB RAM, minimum 180 MB free hard-disk space; 16-speed CD-Rom drive, SVGA monitor set to display high colour (64K 0r 16-bit colour); Windows compatible 16-bit sound card; Adobe Reader 6.0 to read ancillary material.
Approximate price: £25.00
|
|
Publisher: Janet Roberts Booklets
Janet Roberts produces professionally illustrated short booklets in a simple language, which would suit adult learners of English as a Foreign Language. Gerogina, 4th Duchess of Newcastle and Saving Thoresby Hall are just two examples. Both texts include high quality photos, both black and white and coloured, and examples of primary resources – for example, reproductions of diary extracts or letters.
The texts are lively and interesting, with not too many words to a page. A good-sized font and good use of line spacing makes them easy to read. Well-placed and clear illustrations help to clarify meaning.
These little texts retail at about £3.00, so it would be quite easy to buy a class set or buy several different ones to build up a small library. They have sturdy, high-gloss covers, which should make them quite durable.
Recommended: EFL adult students working at European Languages Passport Level B1.
|
Buy this from http://www.janetrobertsbooklets.com |
|
Publisher: Eurotalk, London
ISBN: 1-8435-2021-4
This is a sound introduction to Welsh. It contains sections on First Words, Food, Colours, Body, Numbers, Times, Shopping and countries. Within each section, you can choose Word Practice, Speaking Practice, an Easy Game, a Hard Game or to Print the Picture dictionary.
The graphics are amusing. The sound quality is good. The software is also able to track the progress of individual users. Once everything on this CD has been mastered, the learner is in a position to move on to the next course. They will also have a good working knowledge of Welsh on which to build.
This CD Rom does require a screen resolution of 1024 x 768, so is not suitable for every laptop. A microphone is also recommended. Your computer must also have sound, 16Mb of free memory and a CD-Rom or DVD drive. You really need to sit down for a concentrated session to benefit from this course. But then, it becomes difficult to drag your self away!
Recommended: Pre GCSE / European Passport Level A2 / any-one relocating to Wales
|
|
Editors: Martin M. Manser, Zhu Yuan, Wang Liangbi, Ren Yongchang, Wu Jingrong, Mei Ping, Ren Xiaoping and Shi Qinan
Publisher: Oxford University Press and The Commercial Press 2004, Oxford
ISBN: 0-1959-6458-6
This useful dictionary contains over 88,000 words and phrases and 130,000 translations. This new edition contains such up-to-the-minute phrases as e-shopping, WAP phone and domain name. Both sections contain English words, Chinese script and a phonetic transcript of the Chinese, showing Pinyin Romanization and Mandarin pronunciation. Between the two sections is a useful guide to using the dictionary, showing how the entries are made and discussing phonetic notation, how meanings are shown and the indexing system. There is also a list of abbreviations and a radical index. Simplified characters are used with orthodox characters for reference.
The print is extremely clear in the dictionary. The font which is used for the English text makes the words stand out clearly against the Chinese script. The pages are indexed to make finding entries easy.
The dictionary is a useful tool for anyone who is learning Chinese or needing to make simple translations between English and Chinese. The dictionary would certainly fit comfortably into a briefcase, though durability may be a problem as this is a paperback.
Recommended: Intermediate learners.
|
|
Publisher: Oxford University Press 2004
ISBN: 0-1959-6461-6
This package includes the latest edition of the Pocket Oxford Chinese Dictionary. The translator tool allows the student access to over 50,000 Chinese words. These are provided as a pop-up feature. The electronic dictionary can be used by entering Chinese, pinyin or English characters. The CD-Rom also gives Mandarin pronunciations for thousands of entries.
The addition of the CD-Rom to the dictionary has two main advantages:
|
It allows the student to gist read a text more easily and quickly – something which is difficult for even the most advanced student because of the nature of the Chinese characters, and the fact that there are no spaces between the characters. |
|
It gives precise pronunciation, which is vital in this tonal language where pronunciation can change the meaning. |
It is also possible for people with little knowledge of Chinese to use this tool to help them understand texts and learn a few basic phrases.
It is extremely easy to install on a computer. There are great advantages to having your dictionary always to hand on your computer.
Recommended: This dictionary will suit the serious student and the businessperson who needs quick access to a difficult language.
System Requirements: 500 MHzCPU or faster, a minimum of 256Mb of RAM, CD-Rom drive, minimum screen resolution of 800x600, operating system: Microsoft Windows XP / 2000 / ME / 98
Approximate price: £19.99
|
|
Publisher: Oxford University Press 2004
ISBN: 0-1986-0859-4
This dictionary contains over 3,000 Japanese entries, which cover everyday vocabulary and simple grammar guides. There are hundreds of example sentences to make it easy for users to find the translations they need. It has been especially designed for English speakers who wish to learn Japanese.
Japanese headwords, compounds and example sentences are shown in Japanese script and are also romanized. The student can therefore quickly become familiar with both forms from the very beginning. Differing fonts make the script very clear. The layout of this dictionary is a new idea. It shows how the language works in context and learners can easily find their way through the dictionary.
The book itself is not heavy. It would be easy to carry it around all the time in a briefcase, a schoolbook or even a handbag. Continuous referral to the dictionary would lead to a rapid build up of acquired language.
Recommended: This dictionary will suit both complete beginners and serious students working up to and beyond GCSE.
Approximate price: £16.99
|
|
Publisher: Oxford University Press 2006
ISBN: 0-1986-1006-8
This dictionary contains over 90,000 words and phrases, over 120,000 translations, detailed coverage of essential grammar, a guide to Russian life and sample letters and CVs. This third edition contains many new words not in the previous editions.
This dictionary is very user-friendly. The Contents Page directs the user efficiently around the book. The entries are clearly visible in a dark bold ink, as are the header words at the top of each page. The sides of the pages are indexed so that it is easy to find the correct letter of the alphabet. However, unfortunately, the page numbers are hard to find, as they are buried almost in the spine of the book.
The dictionary is compact enough to be carried in a brief-case or school bag, though a little too large for a lady’s handbag. It would be an idea to cover it if one intends to travel with it – the cover is a little flimsy.
Recommended: All learners up to the first year of university.
Approximate price: £12.99
|
|
Publisher: Oxford University Press 2004, Oxford
ISBN: 0-1986-0904-3
This CD-Rom contains the Oxford Dictionary of English, the Oxford Dictionary of Quotations, the New Oxford Thesaurus of Quotations and The Philip’s Encyclopaedia. It uses iFinger technology. The four titles can be accessed individually or simultaneously from the Web or in Microsoft Windows
The Oxford Dictionary of English contains 355,000 words and this latest version has 3,000 brand new words and senses. The encyclopaedia has over 13,000 entries. The dictionary of quotations contains over 16,000 quotations. The thesaurus is easyto use and gives a good variety of alternative words.
The CD is installed on to your hard drive. You can access each title individually or have them all or none of them active at the same time. You can just mouse over the word you want to deal with, or you may type into the iFinger bar. Either way, this is quicker than thumbing through a dictionary. Software upgrades are available. It integrates with other Pop-up publications available from OUP.
For those people who work away from home, perhaps using a lap-top, this reference shelf is ideal. You will always have these reference materials to hand without having to carry heavy books around.
Recommended: Students of all levels / Writers
System Requirements: PC with 166MHz Pentium-class processor. Windows 98 / Me / NT 4.0 / 2000 / XP. 64MB Ram, 80 MB free hard disk. SVGA monitor. Displaying 16-bit colour (64k High Colour) CD Rom or DVD drive. Internet access (56K modem) required for registration (optional) with iFinger.
|
|
Publisher: Oxford University Press 2003, Oxford
ISBN: 0-1986-0356-8
This CD-Rom contains the equivalent of the Concise Oxford Hachette French, the Concise Oxford Spanish and the Concise Oxford Duden German dictionaries. The French dictionary has over 175,000 words and 270,000 translations. The Spanish one has over 170,000 words, 240,000 translations and covers 24 regional variations. The German dictionary contains over 150,000 words and 250,000 translations.
The Shelf uses iFinger technology. The three dictionaries can be accessed individually or simultaneously from the Web or in Microsoft Windows. The iFinger software can tell the difference between English, French, German and Spanish, so it takes you to the right dictionary every time.
The CD is installed on to your hard drive. You can access each title individually or have them all or none of them active at the same time. You can just mouse over the word you want to deal with, or you may type into the iFinger bar. Either way, this is quicker than thumbing through a dictionary. Software upgrades are available. It integrates with other Pop-up publications available from OUP.
For those people who work away from home, perhaps using a lap-top, this reference shelf is ideal. You will always have these reference materials to hand without having to carry heavy books around.
Recommended: Students of all levels in each of the languages / people who need bi-lingual dictionaries for their work
|
|
Publisher: RosettaStone UK
This package is available as a CD-ROM version or online via your Web browser. Languages covered are Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Danish, Dutch, English (UK), English (US), French, German, Greek, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Pashto, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Spanish (Latin America), Spanish (Spain), Swahili, Swedish, Thai, Turkish, Vietnamese and Welsh. However, only Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Danish, Dutch, English (UK), English (US), French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Spanish (Latin America), and Spanish (Spain) are available at Level 2 and in the combined Level 1 / Level 2 sets which save you over a quarter of the price.
Level 1 includes such topics as People and Talking, Directions, Food, Eating and Drinking, Family Relationships, Telling Time, Numbers One to a Hundred, Clothing and Dress, Vehicles, Furniture, Clothing and Instruments, Shapes, Colours and Locations, and offers more than 250 hours of instruction in Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing.
Level 2 includes such topics as Greetings and Conversations, Travel, Transportation and Transactions, Shopping and Dining Out, Asking Questions, Forms of Address, The Weather and Clothing, Office Activities and Terminology, Common Social Conventions, Calendar Conventions, The Five Senses, Sickness and Health, and offers more than 300 hours of accelerated study for intermediate learners.
Both levels include speech recognition, systematic structure, previews, exercises and tests.
Classroom editions also include a student study guide, quizzes and tests and there is a Student Management System available.
The courses have high quality images and the learner is guided in simple stages through a series of tasks, so that they gradually learn quite complex structures without confusions or overload.
One of the most important features of these courses is that they can be accessed anywhere. You can use the CDs in a laptop, and of course, if you use the on-line version, you can access it from anywhere where you can use an Internet connection. You can work completely at your own pace through the materials.
Recommended: Level 1 will be a good supplement for a good grade GCSE / Level B1 European Languages Passport and would work as a good stand-alone resource for anyone learning for conversational purposes. Level 2 would lead towards Level B2 of the European Languages Passport, and would greatly increase confidence for those students who have basic mastery of the particular language.
|
Buy this from www.therosettastone.co.uk |
|
Publisher: London Metropolitan University
E-packs are interactive language exercises and games to practise French, Italian and Spanish at beginner’s level. The 12 on-line sessions each contain 10 to 13 tasks covering a variety of skills and language learning support. Each e-pack contains more than 100 interactive activities.
The exercises are fun to complete. In some, the learner has to drag the correct answers into place. In others, they have to type a response. There is a good variety of tasks with a mixture of skills and considerable attention to grammar. The exercises work well technically. The extension sections are impressive. They are detailed, and refer to other resources, including the Internet.
This is not a stand-alone resource, but it would certainly enhance any beginner’s course. As it is on-line, it could be accessed from anywhere with an Internet connection.
Recommended: All Language Learners in Adult, Further and Higher Education as well as Business People looking for a flexible language option. As a supplement for any course up to GCSE / European Languages Passport Level B1
|
Buy this from www.londonmet.ac.uk/epacks |
|
Publisher: Talking Dice
These clever little dice are designed to “get them talking” and that is
precisely what they do. Indeed they would also be a useful prompt for written
work and could be used in other subject areas as well – maybe drama and creative
writing for instance. In fact, they could encourage the use of drama and creative
writing in the foreign language.
They come in packs of six, covering the topics of accommodation, body parts, clothes, drinks, extreme sports, furniture, hobbies, occupations, pencil case items, people, pets, school subjects, snacks, sport transport and weather.
Talking Dice have thoughtfully also invented the “Cut the Clatter” mat – a little like a mouse-mat – which can save the top of polished tables and a classroom teacher’s nerves. You can also purchase a trial pack, which includes one die from each of the sixteen topics. This could be ideal for students working on their own, or for the private tutor who works one-to-one with clients.
It is also worth a visit to Talking Dices’ web site, which gives hints and tips on using the dice and ideas for games.
Recommended: Everybody, from beginners to university professors.
Prices: Set of six dice on one topic: £5.85 (including VAT). Mats: six for £12.50. Trial pack: £19.98, which includes a £5.00 voucher off your next purchase
|
Buy this from www.talkingdice.co.uk |
|
