Joie de Vivre
Language is the road map of culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going.
Rita Mae Brown
Learning a foreign language introduces a new culture, a new way of life and builds bridges.
Today, we are global citizens. A people without boundaries. In keeping with the times, the students of Vikhe Patil Memorial School, Pune celebrated the French Language Week with much gusto from November 3 – 9, 2022.
This week began with a special assembly with students sharing the thought for the day, reciting stories and presenting news headlines in French and English.
This was then followed by a recital of melodious French songs, ‘’On dirait’’ and ‘’On écrit sur les murs,’’ by the students of classes IX & X. Our very talented students took their performances up a notch with their classmates giving them accompaniment on the keyboard and guitar. Students of class VIII played the French national anthem on the keyboard and concluded the assembly with a recital that will stay with every green in our memories for days to come.
The French theme was carried through visually as well; with the school building and softboards decked up in bleu-blanc-rouge (blue, white and red), as an honour to the colours of the French flag.
To showcase their language skills, students displayed their proficiency through dance performances, poem recitations, skit presentations and musical recitals. The performances were a great mix of solo items and group acts. Some put-up stalls displaying their craft and cooking skills. This little fete also saw students set up popup shops selling their handcrafted goodies. What made the week memorable was seeing students thoughtfully dressed in traditional outfits!
There was enthused participation from students in a class-wise fun quiz where they showcased their flair for the language.
What is culture without art? The French week also included screening of French films and documentaries to help understand the finer nuances of the language and provide insight into a slice of French history. For an immersive experience, students were introduced to popular
delicacies in French cuisine such as macarons, croissants and pain au chocolat! Food after all is memories!
A career talk was conducted for the students of Class IX & X by an alumna of the school, Gayatri Kotbagi.
A special thanks to Ms. Mrinalini, Principal of Vikhe Patil Memorial School, Pune whose constant support, guidance and encouragement helped make the event successful.
-Renuka Wable
