French
French (like all Romance languages) descended from Vulgar Latin, the language of soldiers, settlers and merchants of the Roman Empire. When the Romans invaded what is now France, they brought with them the Latin language, which over a long period of time split into two groups, the langue d’oil and langue d’oc, so named for how people say "yes". Langue d’oil was spoken in Northern France and eventually became what we know as modern French.
In recent years French has been heavily influenced by English. You will find that words like le shampooing and le parking are accepted. The Académie Française is a group of intellectuals who work to preserve the French language and designate what is considered correct.
There are many different dialects of French, just as there are many different dialects of English. People from France do not speak with the same vocabulary and intonation as people from Cameroon or Québec, but they are still able to understand each other.
Youth Programs
Summer Villages - Lac du Bois, ages 7-18 | Swiss Helvetia, ages 7-18 | Les Voyageurs, ages 11-18
Pre-K | Day Camps | Spring Break Villages | Field Trips
Family Programs
Family Weekend
Summer Family Weeks - Lac du Bois | Swiss Helvetia | Les Voyageurs
Adult Programs
Adult Weeks - Lac du Bois | Les Voyageurs
Adult Workshops - Rencontre de voix /voies Francophones
Educator Programs (for all world language educators)
Master of Education in World Language Instruction
Teacher Seminars
Workshops
Village Weekends
· Because you have that special esprit de corps. Learning French connects you to over 200 million people in more than 50 countries worldwide. Thirty-three countries have declared French an official language within their borders.
· Because you want to prepare for your future. Knowing another language and appreciating other cultures — these are skills that last a lifetime. Whether your interest is world affairs, business, high fashion, culinary arts, or just broadening your mind, learning French at the Language Villages will leave you with knowledge and understanding that you’ll use again and again.
· Because you’d like to understand your past. Maybe your ancestors lived in France, Benin or Quebec. Maybe you have family or friends of French-speaking heritage. Learning about French language and culture will give you a deep appreciation for Francophone culture, and maybe even help you feel more connected to your own heritage.
· Because you like having fun! Quintessential French activities, mixed with camping favorites like canoeing, swimming, and marshmallow roasting, guarantee that every minute of your Lac du Bois experience will be a treasured memory in the making.
