16 Surprising Differences Between French And American High Schools
16 Surprising Differences Between French And American High Schools
Exploring the differences between French and American high schools reveals some surprising contrasts that go beyond language and geography. From classroom rules about bathroom breaks to the emphasis on extracurricular activities, each system has its own way of shaping students’ daily lives and educational experiences. This comparison dives into various aspects, including how schools approach teaching, student freedom, and even what’s for lunch. Understanding these differences gives us a glimpse into how education reflects and reinforces the broader culture and values of each country.
1. Toilet Breaks During Class
In American high schools, students are generally allowed to leave the classroom to go to the toilet during lessons. However, in French high schools, students are expected to use the toilet during breaks between classes. This strict rule is intended to minimize disruptions and keep the focus on learning, but can be surprising for those used to the more flexible American approach.
2. Focus on Extracurricular Activities
American high schools place a significant emphasis on being involved in clubs and sports alongside academic studies. In contrast, French high schools prioritize academic learning, with a strong focus on subjects like mathematics and French literature. This difference highlights varying approaches to education and student development.
3. Availability of Foreign Language Classes
U.S. high schools typically offer a limited selection of foreign language classes, often focusing on Spanish or French. Conversely, French high schools usually provide students with the opportunity to learn 2 to 4 foreign languages, reflecting a broader emphasis on multilingualism and global engagement.
4. School Lunch Differences
School lunches in France are known for being more balanced and nutritionally rich, featuring a variety of courses. American high schools, on the other hand, often serve fast food items like corn dogs and pizza. This contrast points to differing attitudes toward food and health in schools.
5. Eating Restrictions in Class
In French high schools, eating during class is generally not allowed, reinforcing a formal learning environment. American high schools are more lenient, with some teachers permitting snacks. This difference reflects cultural variations in classroom management and student freedom.
6. Memorization vs. Understanding
In French high schools, students are expected to memorize information without aids, which can detract from deeper understanding of concepts. American high schools, however, sometimes allow formulas to be kept on the walls during classes, promoting a focus on application rather than rote memorization.
7. Teacher-Student Relationships
Teachers in U.S. high schools are often perceived as more friendly and laid-back, fostering a relaxed atmosphere that encourages interaction. French teachers tend to maintain a more formal relationship with students, emphasizing respect and authority.
8. Importance of Creative Classes
In American high schools, creative classes such as art and music are considered as important as academic subjects, offering a well-rounded education. French high schools, however, do not typically prioritize these areas, focusing more on traditional academic subjects.
9. Choosing Classes
American high school students have the flexibility to choose their classes, allowing for personalized education paths. French students, in contrast, follow a set program with little room for elective choices, ensuring a uniform academic experience.
10. Class Age Composition
In the U.S., high school classes often mix students of different ages based on their academic level or elective choices. French high schools group students strictly by age, with each grade moving through the curriculum together.
11. School Transportation
American high school buses typically stop at each student’s house, while French students often have to walk to a central bus stop. This difference in school transportation reflects varying infrastructure and approaches to student convenience.
12. Retaking Tests
In the United States, high schools usually allow students to retake tests to improve their grades. French high schools, however, rarely offer this opportunity, placing more pressure on students to perform well on their first attempt.
13. Catching Up After Illness
In the U.S., teachers are generally supportive of students who miss school due to illness, often providing lesson materials at the front desk. In France, students are responsible for catching up on missed work without additional support, highlighting a more independent approach to student responsibility.
14. Attitude Towards School Closures
Snow days and school closures due to weather are common in the U.S. but are virtually unheard of in France. Missing school because of weather can even be viewed negatively, reflecting a strong commitment to education regardless of external conditions.
15. Homework Load
American high schools are often criticized for giving little homework, whereas French high schools assign a significant amount that can occupy weekends and evenings. This heavy workload in France emphasizes the importance of academic achievement and discipline.
16. Senior Year Experience
Senior year in American high schools is filled with fun events, funded by the junior class, as a celebration of the end of high school. In France, the final year is focused entirely on preparing for the baccalauréat exams, with no time for events or relaxation, marking a stark contrast in the culmination of high school education.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
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