The main aim of this dissertation was to explore the application of intercultural communicative competence to the teaching of French culture in Malta, focusing on the role of national stereotypes. Issues relevant to intercultural communication, the competencies required the role of stereotypes and the implications for pedagogy are discussed. A survey was conducted with Form 4 as well as Form 1 students, the aim of which was to establish

(a) what stereotypes the Maltese seem to entertain about France, The French people and French culture and

(b) whether exposure to the teaching of French has in any way reduced this stereotyping.

It resulted that in spite of an overall positive impression of France at both levels, Form 1 students are better disposed towards the French and the French language than the Form 4s, who hold steadfastly to the idea that the French are snobs, unhelpful and overly patriotic It therefore resulted that over the years, the teaching of French had a negative effect. These results served as the basis for the proposal of three lesson plans addressed to teachers and students at secondary level, for the teaching of French culture in an intercultural mode.

B.Ed (Hons) 2005

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