The updated fifth edition of this high-school level textbook emphasizes oral proficiency while also instructing in written French composition, reading proficiency, listening comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and the use of French idioms. Updated vocabulary reflects current technology and contemporary social and idiomatic expressions. Student-friendly features include dialogues, songs, word puzzles, and insights into French customs, everyday life, and culture. Practice and review questions appear throughout the text, with answers in a set of perforated pages at the back of the book. A set of three audio compact discs are enclosed with the book. The audio material complements the written text, presenting approximately three hours of coaching in French pronunciation and immersion in conversational French. Photos and illustrations throughout the book.