Sur le vif (Paperback)

~ (Author), Clare Tufts (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Designed specifically for one-semester intermediate French courses, SUR LE VIF offers a contextualized review of the fundamentals, adding just enough new material to expand the language skills of students without overwhelming them. Since the textbook is divided into an in-class conversation text and an out-of-class grammar reference, instructors may choose among readings, activities, and grammar practice to meet the varied needs of intermediate students. In nine short chapters, SUR LE VIF encompasses a full-length intermediate course with its provocative readings, active grammar review, and updated cultural notes. The program also takes into account the importance of audio and visual elements: the "Prélude" (before Chapter 1), two "Interludes" (after Chapters 3 and 6), and "Postlude" (after Chapter 9) contain new songs and follow-up activities. The all-new video program adds a visual component. By skillfully weaving grammar review into thought-provoking chapter themes, SUR LE VIF provides a solid review of first-year French while adding refinements for improved skills in reading, listening, composition, and conversation.

Language Notes

Text: French, English --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 312 pages
• Publisher: Heinle; 4th edition (February 8, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1413005586
• ISBN-13: 978-1413005585
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 7.8 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #366,020 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good review and vocabulary building, June 19, 2007

By	E. Boylan (Chicago, IL USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This book was an extremely helpful grammar review to finish up the intermediate level before continuing to a course in grammar and composition. Confusing subjects that had to be covered quickly in beginning French were reviewed, along with a few irregular verbs per chapter and spelling rules.

Much of this book is given to building vocabulary, set out in themes like student life, transportation, immigration, and politics. These were especially helpful in feeling prepared to talk about something besides family and the weather in French, and having the wide range of extra vocabulary gives one a lot of options for topics to write on at higher levels.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book for intermediate level, October 19, 2008

By	SDG "SDG" (USA) - See all my reviews

I found this book really engaging. It gives you the opportunity to learn within a particular context. The workbook provides great reinforcement. I like the idea of having the grammar section at the end of the book which makes it more inviting (it's not just about learning the grammar, it's about using it).
Another great feature: this book is not as heavy as the previous ones I had!!

3 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good French text book for college students, May 16, 2004

By	Mr. Wynn (State of Confusion) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Sur le vif (Paperback)

At first, I was skeptical with this text book but soon came to enjoy it! There are relevant studies throughout the book with helpful cultural tidbits.

I do have one pet peeve about the text book, however. There are not enough practice exercises in the book. Practice of grammar points taught in the book are mainly dependent on the supplementary workbook (sold separately).

This textbook is better than soem of hte other college textbooks such as Motifs which was horrible!