Immaculata Students Embark on an 'Amazing Race'

The Messenger-Gazette By The Messenger-Gazette The Somerset Reporter
on April 24, 2013 at 1:46 PM, updated April 24, 2013 at 1:48 PM
French Amazing Race 3c.jpg 

Immaculata French III College Preparatory students recently had the opportunity to plan and experience their own virtual “amazing race.” The project, the brainchild of teacher and world language department chairwoman Jean Kline, had students researching French-speaking countries, discovering unique aspects of the locations, and then creating their own challenges in the vein of the popular television show The Amazing Race.

The project lasted for an entire quarter, with different stages due for grading. Each student first had to select two French-speaking countries and do preliminary research. The pupils then formed groups of three, selecting three of the countries they researched as destinations for their race. From there, the groups compiled more in-depth research and selected various cities or landmarks for their competition. They then devised two challenges at each destination.

After creating their event, the groups presented their completed races to the class. The teams then switched races and attempted to complete each others’ challenges using the internet and other sources. Throughout their race, students kept journals in French about the experience. At the close of the quarter, the teams presented their completed challenges, along with interactive exhibits such as crepes, masks similar to those from Guadeloupe, and a demonstration of Muslim prayer similar to that practiced in Morocco.

Kline says she was inspired when attempting to create a project that would incorporate her class’ unit on travel vocabulary in an engaging way. After watching an episode of The Amazing Race, she was fascinated and began developing the project. The ultimate goal was to reinforce elements of vocabulary and grammar while promoting cultural awareness and team-building elements.

Said Kline, “I always want my students to learn practical information in French, and what could be more practical than travel vocabulary? I also wanted them to learn more about the French-speaking world. I was very excited to watch them learn things they never knew before and I feel this project served its purpose very well.”