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=Bienvenue au monde francophone!=

Did you know that French is not just spoken in France? In fact, it is the second most widely spoken language in the world, after English. It is spoken in over 30 countries in the world, in Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and even Asia!

Below, find a few terms relating to French culture and the French language. Please provide your own thoughts!

Cognates
When learning French, it is important to understand that you already know more than you think! One third of English words come from French, and we use many French phrases in everyday English conversation. Recently, many English words have become commonly used in French.

Here is a list of cognates, or words that appear similar and have the same meaning in French and English. Can you add to the list? - le chocolat - la radio - le cinéma ...

And here are some French phrases that English speakers use. What do these phrases mean? Can you think of some more? - Bon voyage! - Déjà vu ...

Le monde francophone
Below are a few countries where French is widely spoken. Visit the [|CIA World Factbook]website. Find more countries where French is spoken and add them here. Why do you think French is spoken in so many different countries in the world? - France - Belgium - Ivory Coast - Canada (Québec) ...

La Chandeleur
La chandeleur is a French holiday that occurs on February 2 every year. It is a Christian holiday that celebrates the presentation of the baby Jesus. Using Google, find the answers to the following questions: - How do the French observe this holiday? - What is the purpose of coins on this holiday? - What American holiday occurs on the same day as la chandeleur? ...

Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is coming! This holiday is recognized in the US as well as in France, though for different reasons. This day signifies the beginning of Lent, the season leading up to Easter. Using Google, find the answers to the following questions: - What does "Mardi Gras" mean? - How is it observed in France? - What do Americans often eat on Mardi Gras? Which French holiday does this resemble? - When is Mardi Gras in 2012? ...

Podcasts
Listening to French language podcasts is a great way to practice French outside of class. Find a podcast (such as [|FrenchPod101]), listen to one or two episodes, and leave a comment on here telling what you learned, what you liked, what you didn't like, and if you think you would use podcasts regularly.