French is the second most widely learned foreign language after English, and the ninth most widely spoken language in the world. It is the only language, alongside English, that is taught in every country in the world. Learning French is the pleasure of learning a beautiful, rich, melodious language, often called the language of love. French is also an analytical language that constructs thought and extends critical thinking, which is a valuable skill for discussions and negotiations.
The University of 3rd Age university is coming up with a program to provide French language lessons to the 3rd age people for different reasons such as to improve one’s French speaking and writing skill, familiarize oneself with such language in case of no French acquaintance and to enrich ones knowledge.
The importance of French language
The cultural language: French is the international language of cooking, fashion, theater, the visual arts, dance and architecture. Great works of literature, films and songs are in French. It is the language of Victor Hugo, Molière, Léopold Sedar Senghor, Edith Piaf, Jean-Paul Sartre amongst others.
World-wide interaction: The aptitude to understand French gives the world a new dimension through communication with French speakers from all the continents.
The friendly language: French is an easy language to learn. Various methods are available on the market that make learning French enjoyable for children and adults alike. It does not take long to reach a level where you can communicate in French.
The key to learn other languages: French is a good base for learning other languages, especially Romance languages (Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Romanian) as well as English as fifty per cent of the English vocabulary is derived from French.