1 - Welcome to Music Class
Have you ever wondered what your favourite instruments are called in French? Today we're forming our own French orchestra and learning how to talk about musical instruments!
French musicians play in famous orchestras around the world. Knowing instrument names helps you chat about music, join a band, or even understand French songs better.
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Name 8 musical instruments in French
- Sort instruments by masculine (le) and feminine (la)
- Talk about instruments with a partner
2 - Instrument Guide
Here are the new French words for musical instruments. Click each word to hear how it's pronounced and look at the pictures to help you remember!
Notice that some instruments use le (masculine) and others use la (feminine). There's no easy rule - you just need to learn each one, but don't worry, you'll practise sorting them later!
Some words look familiar like le piano and la guitare - these are called cognates and make French easier to learn.
How to Use This Activity:
Option 1: Digital Reference (Interactive)
- Display the Word Table on the whiteboard or let students access on their devices.
- Click/tap words to hear pronunciation - great for listening and speaking practice.
- Go through each word together, practising pronunciation as a class.
Option 2: Printed Reference Sheet
Download Vocabulary Sheet (PDF)
- Print the vocabulary reference sheet for students to keep as a study aid.
- Great for homework, revision, or as a take-home reference.
- Students can use it alongside the interactive activity.
3 - Matching Game
Great job learning the instrument names! Now test your memory - flip the cards and match each French instrument to its English translation. Work quickly to beat your best time!
How to Use This Activity:
Option 1: Students on Devices
- Students complete the Matching Pairs activity on their own laptop or tablet.
- Students match words to their translations. Encourage them to say the words aloud as they match.
- Walk around the room to monitor progress and assist students who need help.
Option 2: Teacher-Led (Whiteboard/Projector)
- Display the activity on your interactive whiteboard or projector.
- Make it competitive - time students or split class into teams. Have students justify their matches.
- Invite students up to interact with the board, or have them call out answers from their desks.
4 - Sort by Gender
Time to practise French grammar! Drag each instrument into the correct column: le (masculine, blue column) or la (feminine, pink column). Listen to the audio if you're not sure!
How to Use This Activity:
Option 1: Students on Devices
- Students complete the Gender Sorting activity on their own laptop or tablet.
- Students drag words into the correct gender category. Helps reinforce article patterns.
- Walk around the room to monitor progress and assist students who need help.
Option 2: Teacher-Led (Whiteboard/Projector)
- Display the activity on your interactive whiteboard or projector.
- Ask students to explain WHY they think a word is masculine/feminine before revealing the answer.
- Invite students up to interact with the board, or have them call out answers from their desks.
5 - Music Conversations
Now put your new words into action! Pair up and take turns having conversations about musical instruments using the prompts on screen. Swap roles after each exchange.
How to Use This Activity:
Option 1: Students on Devices
- Students complete the Partner Practice activity on their own laptop or tablet.
- Students practise dialogue with a partner or family member. They can click to hear each phrase before repeating.
- Walk around the room to monitor progress and assist students who need help.
Option 2: Teacher-Led (Whiteboard/Projector)
- Display the activity on your interactive whiteboard or projector.
- Pair students up to practise the dialogue. Model the conversation first with a volunteer, then have pairs practise.
- Invite students up to interact with the board, or have them call out answers from their desks.
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This lesson is copyright of Coding Ireland 2017 - 2025. Unauthorised use, copying or distribution is not allowed.
