French

Environment and Cosmetics : Year 10 French students reflect on sustainability

Year 10 French students had the opportunity to interview online, Rémi Bouchenez, Managing Director of Cosimer, an importer of French and European brands. This interview was linked to their Term Three topic, which is 'Environment'. 

The students carefully read the environmental chart of Mavala; a Swiss brand imported by Cosimer. Its most popular product is the mini 5ml nail polish bottle. They prepared their questions and their main concern was: How do you reduce your environmental impact and how do you try to be eco-friendly while selling cosmetics?

Rémi pointed out very honestly that managing the development of a company and caring for the environment can be contradictory goals but he also said that being eco-friendly is an ongoing process and reflection.

Through practical examples, he explained to the students how the Swiss brand started to create more biodegradable, recyclable and zero waste products, as well as not testing products on animals.

He also spoke about his job and the variety of the tasks from marketing, to negotiating contracts and launching campaigns. 

He said he loves it because there is a lot of variety and creativity in his job.

The good news is students are feeling more comfortable with their Listening and Speaking skills.

YEAR 8 FRENCH STUDENTS HAVE DISCOVERED FENCING 

As we are working on the topic of Sports with the Year 8 French level, our students have discovered the fantastic sport of Fencing-l’escrime-which has a very long French heritage.

Students have discovered the equipment (le masque, the jacket known as le plastron, le gant, (the glove) and the lamé, an electrically conductive garment worn over le plastron.

Chris Jones, from Swordfighters Australia was their coach for the day. I must say their ‘Maître d’armes’ as Chris has International accreditation including a three month study in Paris in 2006.

He has also represented Australia in Foil at numerous events including; Commonwealth Championships, Asian Championships, Oceania Teams, World Championships, numerous World Cups and National Competitions.

Chris explained to them the posture, the philosophy, the tradition and the technique of this sport where French excel as well as Italians.

When familiar with En garde! and Allez! Chris showed our students the three weapons: le fleuret,(the foil) l’epée and le sabre, each of which having different scoring target areas. The students started to put their mask on and use their fleuret. 

But beyond this, our Year 8 French students have discovered that an opponent must be always treated with respect as you need to salute, to say merci at the end of the duel to your ‘adversaire’. So etiquette and fair play are the key words.

They have also understood that l’escrime is a lot about observation and focus. 

Many arguments are in favour of this sport. According to Chris Jones: Fencing / L’Escrime is adaptive, aesthetic and physical, as well as being intellectual and strategic. 

Also, students can develop fully in the sport, increasing physical functions, aerobic ability, spatial awareness and competitive thinking, strategy and …have fun. 

But the best part of the lesson for them  was to pronounce the famous ‘touché!’ when they reached their opponent.