WACE French Second Language ATAR key terms

The main claim or position that a written argument or oral presentation sets out to defend, usually stated near the start and supported by the rest of the text.

A reason or piece of evidence offered to support a position. In the exam, strong arguments are developed with examples rather than simply asserted.

A specific illustration used to make an argument concrete. Effective examples in the written paper are relevant, brief, and clearly linked back to the point being made.

The organised structure of a written response, showing how paragraphs and ideas follow one another. A clear plan helps the reader follow the argument from introduction to conclusion.

The opening section of a written text that presents the topic, states the main position, and signals how the response will be organised for the reader.

The closing section of a written text that restates the main position, draws the ideas together, and may offer a final reflection without introducing new arguments.

A linking word or phrase such as 'cependant', 'par conséquent' or 'd'une part' that shows the relationship between ideas and makes a written text flow smoothly.

The quality of a text whose ideas are logically connected and easy to follow. It depends on clear organisation, consistent argument, and appropriate linking words throughout.

The level of formality in language, ranging from informal spoken style to formal written style. Candidates must choose a register suited to the task and audience.

A shortened version of a text that keeps the main ideas and removes detail. A good summary is accurate, concise, and written in the candidate's own words.

A task that combines information from two or more documents into a single coherent text, identifying shared points and differences without simply copying the sources.

The central point of a paragraph or document, which the surrounding sentences explain or support. Identifying it is essential for comprehension and summary tasks.

A word or short phrase that carries the essential meaning of a sentence or text. Spotting keywords helps candidates answer comprehension questions quickly and accurately.

A reading strategy in which a candidate scans a text for specific information rather than reading every word. It saves time in the comprehension section of the exam.

A written account that reports on an event, article, or experience, giving the essential facts and commenting on them in a structured, objective way.

A letter written to an institution or unknown recipient, using formal conventions such as a salutation, a clear purpose, polite formulas, and a closing formula.

The use of 'vous' to address someone politely or formally. Choosing between 'vous' and 'tu' correctly is a key indicator of register in written and oral tasks.

The use of 'tu' to address someone informally, typically a friend, peer, or family member. It is inappropriate in formal letters and most formal oral exchanges.

A statement that shows how two things are similar or different. Comparison questions require candidates to identify points of contrast and support them with evidence from the texts.

A relationship in which two ideas or facts contrast with each other. It is often signalled by words such as 'mais', 'alors que', or 'en revanche'.

A detail, statistic, or anecdote used to clarify or support a point. In the written paper, illustrations should be relevant and clearly connected to the argument.

The instruction that tells a candidate what to do in a task, including the topic, the format, and the audience. Misreading the consigne is a common cause of lost marks.

The written component of the examination, which tests reading, writing, and language accuracy through comprehension questions and extended writing tasks under timed conditions.

The spoken component of the examination, in which the candidate talks with an examiner about prepared topics and responds to unfamiliar questions in French.

A structured conversation between the candidate and the examiner. It tests the ability to sustain discussion, justify opinions, and respond spontaneously to follow-up questions.

A follow-up question or prompt from the examiner that encourages the candidate to expand, clarify, or defend a point during the oral examination.

The act of giving reasons or evidence for an opinion. In the oral exam, candidates should support every viewpoint with explanation rather than a simple statement.

The part of the oral examination in which the candidate presents and defends a personal viewpoint on a topic, using prepared ideas and supporting detail.

A structured discussion in which opposing views are presented and defended. In the oral exam, it tests the ability to respond to challenge and maintain a position politely.

The way words are spoken, including sounds, stress, and rhythm. Clear pronunciation helps the examiner understand the candidate and is assessed in the oral examination.

The rise and fall of the voice when speaking, used to signal questions, emphasis, and emotion. Appropriate intonation makes spoken French sound natural and easier to follow.

The smooth, natural flow of speech with few long pauses or hesitations. It is developed through practice and is a key criterion in the oral assessment.

A pause or filler sound when a speaker searches for a word. Occasional hesitation is normal, but frequent hesitation reduces fluency and can obscure meaning.

The vocabulary available to a speaker or writer, or the set of words associated with a particular topic. A varied lexique raises the quality of both written and oral responses.

Saying the same idea in different words, either to clarify a point or to avoid repetition. It is a useful strategy when a candidate lacks a precise word.

A roundabout way of expressing something, often used when the exact word is unknown. It helps candidates keep speaking without breaking the flow of conversation.

The topic or theme that a written or oral task asks the candidate to address. Identifying the sujet precisely is the first step in planning any response.

The act of stating a clear opinion on an issue. In oral tasks, candidates should state a position and then support it with reasons and examples.