Study Notes
Overview
Pronunciation and intonation are critical components of the OCR GCSE French Speaking exam, accounting for a significant portion of the marks under Assessment Objective 2 (AO2). This guide focuses on the specific phonetic features that distinguish a high-scoring candidate. Examiners are trained to listen for the consistent production of authentic French phonemes, correct stress on the final syllable, and appropriate intonation contours for statements and questions. Failure to master these elements, such as anglicising the French 'u' or 'r' sounds, can impede communication and result in lost marks. This resource provides a targeted approach to developing an authentic French accent, focusing on the sounds and rhythms that will give you a competitive edge. We will cover key vowel and consonant sounds, the rules of liaison, stress patterns, and intonation, all within the context of the OCR exam requirements.
Key Pronunciation Features
The French Vowel System
What it is: French has more vowel sounds than English, and many are produced in a different part of the mouth. The distinction between sounds like 'u' and 'ou' is crucial for meaning.
Why it matters: Incorrect vowel sounds can change the meaning of a word (e.g., 'rue' vs. 'roue'). Examiners award marks for clear, unambiguous vowel production.
Specific Knowledge: Candidates must be able to produce front rounded vowels like /y/ (in 'tu') and nasal vowels like /ɑ̃/ (in 'dans').
Silent Consonants and Liaison
What it is: Many final consonants in French are silent (e.g., the 't' in 'chat'). However, these silent consonants are often pronounced when the next word begins with a vowel, a process called 'liaison'.
Why it matters: Correctly applying liaison demonstrates fluency and a sophisticated understanding of French phonology. It is a key feature that examiners listen for.
Specific Knowledge: Be prepared to use liaison in common phrases like 'les_amis', 'vous_avez', and 'un_enfant'.
Intonation Patterns
What it is: Intonation is the 'melody' of the language. In French, statements typically have a falling pitch at the end, while yes/no questions have a rising pitch.
Why it matters: Using flat, English-style intonation for questions can make you sound uncertain or even rude. Correct intonation makes your speech expressive and easy to understand.
Specific Knowledge: Practice the rising intonation for questions like 'Tu aimes le chocolat?' and the falling intonation for statements like 'J'habite à Londres.'
Key Individuals
This section is not applicable to the topic of Pronunciation and Intonation.
Second-Order Concepts
This section is not applicable to the topic of Pronunciation and Intonation.
Source Skills
This section is not applicable to the topic of Pronunciation and Intonation.