Learning the French adverb suffix -ment provides students with a simple way to expand their vocabularies. However, it may be challenging for students to grasp the many spelling rules that accompany this suffix when added to an adjective. In this activity, students will practice the spelling changes when "-ment" is added to an adjective.
The sample storyboard and template for this activity include adjectives that will require various spelling changes before adding the adverb suffix. To simplify the activity, include only masculine singular adjectives that do not require spelling changes in the adverb form. Feel free to alter the templates and instructions as needed.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Practice the spelling changes needed to change French adjectives into adverbs. Change each adjective into an adverb ending in -ment, then use the adverb in a sentence.
Clarify the difference between adjectives that follow the standard -ment rule and those that change spelling or form irregular adverbs. This helps students build a strong foundation and avoid common mistakes.
Collect frequently used adjectives from your current unit or students' textbooks. Relevant vocabulary makes the activity more meaningful and supports retention.
Demonstrate the step-by-step process of changing an adjective to an adverb, narrating your thought process. Students benefit from hearing how you apply spelling rules and check your work.
Provide cards or digital lists for students to sort adjectives into 'regular' and 'irregular' adverb categories. Sorting strengthens pattern recognition and builds confidence in rule application.
Challenge students to write original sentences using the new adverbs, rewarding creativity and accuracy. Authentic use encourages deeper understanding and retention.
The simplest way to change a French adjective into an adverb is to add the suffix -ment to the adjective's feminine singular form. For example, heureux (happy) becomes heureusement (happily). Be aware of spelling changes that might apply based on the adjective.
Some French adjectives require spelling changes before adding -ment. Generally, you use the feminine form of the adjective. If the masculine form ends in a vowel, add -ment directly. If it ends in a consonant, switch to the feminine form (usually ending in -e) before adding -ment.
Yes! For example: lent (slow) becomes lentement (slowly), and heureux (happy) becomes heureusement (happily). Always check if the adjective needs to switch to the feminine form first.
Common errors include forgetting to use the feminine form when needed, misplacing the -ment suffix, or incorrect spelling changes. For example, actif should become activement, not actifment. Always review the spelling rules for each adjective.
Teachers can ask students to list adjectives, convert them to adverbs with -ment, and use them in sentences. Visual aids like storyboards or sentence templates help reinforce spelling changes. Limiting to adjectives that don't require complex changes can simplify the lesson for beginners.