* It varies by region: Some regions in France have a stronger tradition of teaching a third language than others. For example, regions bordering Germany or Spain might emphasize learning those languages.
* It depends on the school: Some schools offer third language options earlier than others.
* It depends on the student's choices: Students have some agency in selecting their languages, though options are limited by what the school offers.
However, here's a general overview:
* Early exposure: Many French schools introduce students to a third language (often English, Spanish, or German) as early as elementary school, sometimes even in the first grade. This usually involves playful activities, songs, and simple vocabulary.
* Formal learning: Formal instruction in a third language typically begins in middle school (Collège), around the age of 11-12. This is often a two-hour weekly class.
* High school (Lycée): Students in high school may continue to learn the same third language or choose a new one, depending on their school's offerings and their own interests. They may also have the opportunity to take advanced courses or participate in language immersion programs.
Important to note:
* While English is often the most popular choice for a third language, other options are becoming increasingly common, such as Spanish, German, and Chinese.
* The focus on learning a third language is generally less intense than for French and English, the two primary languages taught in France.
* The level of proficiency students achieve in their third language varies greatly depending on factors like motivation, natural aptitude, and the amount of exposure they have outside of school.
Ultimately, the age at which French students learn a third language is not fixed, but rather a combination of individual choices, school policies, and regional variations.