French Lesson Plan

Introduction: Immerse your students in the touching narrative of "Huitième Jour" with our comprehensive French lesson plan. Directed by Jaco Van Dormael, this heartfelt film explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and personal transformation, making it an excellent resource for language learning and cultural exploration.

Film Summary: Georges, a man with Down's syndrome, escapes from a mental institution and crosses paths with Harry, a successful but emotionally distant businessman. Despite Harry's initial reluctance, a profound and transformative friendship develops between them, changing both their lives.

Additional Details: Released in 1996, "Huitième Jour" stars Daniel Auteuil, Pascal Duquenne, and Miou-Miou. The film received critical acclaim and won awards, including the Best Actor award for both Auteuil and Duquenne at the Cannes Film Festival. The DVD includes French audio with optional English subtitles, making it versatile for language learners. The film’s exploration of human connection and the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities provides a rich educational experience.

Suggested Dates for Classroom Use:

• May 25: Release date anniversary
• July 14: Bastille Day, exploring French culture
• October 10: World Mental Health Day, discussing themes of mental health and acceptance
• November 17: International Students’ Day, celebrating diverse abilities and learning experiences

Conclusion: Using "Huitième Jour" in your classroom enhances language skills while providing insights into themes of acceptance and friendship. This lesson plan includes structured activities, discussion questions, and cultural notes to enrich the learning experience. Created for teachers, by teachers, our comprehensive lesson plans ensure you have all the resources needed for an engaging and educational classroom experience. IMDB

Learn more about Huitième Jour

Click here to stream the film.

Download Sample French Lesson Plan