Must-Have French Classroom Tools for a Smooth & Successful Year


Starting a new year in the French classroom can be exciting—but also a little overwhelming. Whether you’re teaching Core French or French Immersion, having the right tools and templates in place can make a big difference in setting the tone, streamlining your routines, and supporting student success.

In this post, we’re sharing must-have French teaching tools to help you stay organized, build student independence, and create a supportive classroom environment. These resources are designed for Grades 4–8 and work for both beginner and intermediate learners.

If you're looking for French classroom management ideasdaily speaking routines, or visual supports to make French more accessible, this list will set you up for success all year long.


1. Daily Question Prompts for Oral Communication

Oral interaction is one of the biggest goals in FSL—and it can also be one of the hardest to plan for consistently. Having a go-to set of prompts makes it easier to start each class with meaningful speaking practice.


These ready-made slides include 30+ speaking questions students can respond to verbally or in writing. They are perfect as:

  • Bellwork or morning routine

  • Exit tickets

  • Think-pair-share prompts

  • Speaking warm-ups

Each question encourages personal expression, helping students use high-frequency vocabulary while building confidence in a risk-free way.


2. Visual Support: The French Vocabulary Office

When students struggle to find the right words in French, it can impact their confidence and output. That’s why a visual word wall or reference board is a must-have.



This resource functions like a mini personal word wall or desk reference. It includes colourful visuals organized by theme (e.g., food, weather, clothing, school). Great for:

  • Independent writing tasks

  • Center work

  • Supporting early finishers

  • Boosting vocabulary recall

Display as a classroom poster or give students their own printed version to keep in duotangs or writing folders.


3. French Classroom Commands Word Wall

Establishing classroom routines in French from the beginning helps create an immersive environment and promotes target-language use. One of the best ways to do this is with a classroom commands word wall.


This printable set features essential daily instructions like:

  • Asseyez-vous (Sit down)

  • Écoutez (Listen)

  • Sortez vos cahiers (Take out your notebooks)

  • Travaillez avec un partenaire (Work with a partner)

Use these to model expectations, teach classroom procedures in French, and reinforce common vocabulary throughout the year. Ideal for bulletin boards or reference displays.


4. Rubrics and Checklists to Simplify Assessment

Assessment in FSL doesn't have to be complicated. When you use clear, consistent tools, both you and your students stay on the same page. Checklists and rubrics also support student self-assessment and goal-setting.




This pack includes editable templates for:

  • Oral presentations

  • Reading comprehension

  • Writing tasks

  • Group projects

Use the included student-friendly versions to help learners track their progress and reflect on their learning. A great way to encourage accountability and clarify expectations.


5. Using Online Translators in the French Classroom (Effectively!)

Let’s face it—students will use online translators. The key is teaching them how to use these tools responsibly and as a support rather than a shortcut.

This one-page activity helps students:

  • Compare translator outputs

  • Recognize common errors

  • Practice editing or rewording translated phrases

  • Understand when translators are helpful (and when they aren’t)

Use this activity at the beginning of the year to set expectations and support digital literacy in French.


Build Your French Teacher Toolkit

By using consistent routines, visual supports, and assessment tools, you’ll create a classroom environment that’s organized, engaging, and supportive of all learners.

Set yourself up for a smooth, organized, and low-stress year—starting with the tools that make your French classroom run like clockwork.

You might also enjoy these blog posts: 

Building Strong Connections: How FSL Teachers Can Get to Know Their Students Better

Back-to-School Planning Tips for FSL Teachers

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