Leaving Certificate French Practice
Master French speaking from Ordinary to Higher Level with AI-powered practice. Official SEC format, instant feedback, proven results. Join 3,500+ successful students.
Choose Your Level
Higher Level
B2Expectations:
Complex discussions with sophisticated opinions
Topics:
Abstract themes, current affairs analysis, cultural comparisons
Grammar:
All tenses including subjunctive, conditional, literary tenses
Vocabulary:
Wide range including formal, academic, and idiomatic expressions
Ordinary Level
B1Expectations:
Clear communication about familiar topics
Topics:
Personal experiences, concrete subjects, basic current affairs
Grammar:
Main tenses, basic subjunctive, some conditional
Vocabulary:
Good range for everyday topics and personal interests
Leaving Certificate French Oral Format
Entretien Personnel
Personal Interview
Personal conversation about yourself and your life
What you need to do:
Expert Tip
Prepare detailed stories about your life. This section should feel like a natural conversation with a French friend.
Example Questions
"Parlez-moi de votre famille"
"Décrivez votre région"
"Quelles sont vos matières préférées?"
"Que faites-vous pendant votre temps libre?"
Discussion Générale
General Discussion
In-depth discussion of current affairs and abstract topics
What you need to do:
Expert Tip
Stay updated on current events in France and Ireland. Practice giving detailed opinions with examples and justifications.
Example Questions
"Que pensez-vous du réchauffement climatique?"
"Comparez l'éducation en Irlande et en France"
"Quel est l'impact des réseaux sociaux?"
"Comment voyez-vous l'avenir de l'Europe?"
Document (Optionnel)
Document (Optional)
Present and discuss a document you've brought (optional)
What you need to do:
Expert Tip
Choose a document that genuinely interests you and relates to French culture. Practice explaining its significance.
Example Questions
• Une photo interesting (French location, cultural event)
• Un article de journal (current French news)
• Un texte littéraire (French author or poem)
• Un projet personnel (French exchange, travel)
How You're Assessed
Communication
Effectiveness of message delivery
Language Range
Variety of vocabulary and structures
Accuracy
Grammatical correctness
Fluency
Natural flow and spontaneity
Essential Vocabulary by Level
Ordinary Level Vocabulary
Higher Level Vocabulary
Key Discussion Topics
Society & Culture
Société et Culture
Ordinary Level Topics:
Higher Level Topics:
Current Affairs
Actualités
Ordinary Level Topics:
Higher Level Topics:
Education & Future
Éducation et Avenir
Ordinary Level Topics:
Higher Level Topics:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Students often answer with just "oui/non"
prompt for elaboration
Example:
Students may panic when confused
offer to rephrase calmly
Example:
Watch for direct English translations
note but don't correct
Example:
Detect memorized answers
ask unexpected follow-up questions
Example:
Students may use "tu" inappropriately
maintain "vous" throughout
Example:
Gender agreement errors are common
note for scoring
Example:
Students struggle with future tense questions
may need rephrasing
Example:
Watch for recited memorized passages
redirect to natural conversation
Example:
Leaving Certificate French FAQs
What is the Leaving Certificate French oral exam format?
The exam has 3 parts: Entretien Personnel (5 mins, 40%), Discussion Générale (5 mins, 35%), and optional Document presentation (2 mins, 25%). Total duration is 12 minutes.
What's the difference between Higher and Ordinary Level French?
Higher Level expects B2 fluency with complex discussions of abstract topics, while Ordinary Level requires B1 proficiency focusing on personal experiences and concrete topics.
Do I need to bring a document for the oral exam?
The document is optional. If you bring one (picture, article, project), you present it for 2 minutes. If not, the extra time is added to the general discussion section.
What topics should I prepare for Discussion Générale?
Current affairs, French culture vs Irish culture, environmental issues, technology, education, and social topics. Practice expressing and justifying opinions on these themes.
How do I handle the Entretien Personnel section?
Prepare to talk fluently about yourself, your school, hobbies, family, part-time jobs, and where you live. This section tests personal communication skills.
How long should I prepare for Leaving Cert French speaking?
Most students need 3-4 months regular practice. Focus on building vocabulary for personal topics and current affairs, plus mastering French pronunciation.