The Bath Nelson Modern Languages Project is a collaboration between the University of Bath and Thomas Nelson to develop innovative course materials for students studying French and German at an advanced level. The Au Point series is a communicative course for post-16 students who are preparing for A-level, AS-level or Revised-Higher examinations. The materials have been specifically written to help students to make an effective transition from GCSE or Standard Grade to an higher level of French-language work. Au Point consists of: students’ book; teacher’s resource book (including copymasters); cassette pack (3x 90 cassettes, including one duplicating master self-study cassette); and video and IT components are currently under research. The series has been developed with the demands of the changing curriculum and the need of a new post-16 clientele in mind. The course provides: a carefully structured bridge from pre-16 to post-16 study; a communicative approach for the four skills, including ample opportunity for creative work and examination-style practice questions; widespread coverage of the topics required by post-16 examinations, within a magazine-style format; full coverage of advanced-level grammar, including practice activities and full grammar reference section; two extended reading sections, to develop reading for interest and enjoyment; a self-study cassette to encourage independent listening; useful work on dictionary skills, language awareness and practical tips for self-study; useful work on dictionary skills and activities with a more vocational slant; and material from many parts of the French-speaking world to promote cultural awareness and contribute to cross-curricular work. This teacher’s resource pack provides: a general introduction to the methodology of the course; ideas for andvanced-level language games; an overview of each chapter of the students’ book with suggested activities; transcripts of all cassette items; and a wide range of photocopiable material, including communicative activities, puzzles and games, plus further grammar exercises.
