I call them the "Question Words" . . . things a reporter might ask, such as:  who, what, where, when, how, why, etc.   When I teach my French students, I always introduce the Question Words as soon as possible.  Even if a beginner doesn't formally understand all of the intricacies of question formation, the use of these single words are vitally important for communication. 

Of course, it's best to use these French question words within a logical context.  We spend plenty of time in class doing just that.  But there's a place for simple memorization, too.  And what better way to memorize that with la musique?

Without further ado, here are the French Question Words to the tune of "Row, Row, Row Your Boat."

Qui - Who

Que (Qu') - What

Où - Where

Quand - When

Comment - How

Pourquoi - Why (parce que . . . because!)

Combien (de) - How much/many (of)

À quelle heure - (At) what time . . .

Voilà les questions!

Listen to my French II students singing La Chanson des Questions.  The quality is rather poor since I recorded them on my cell phone.  (Shhh . . . don't tell my administrators that I broke the "no phones" rule.)  Hopefully, you'll be able to get the general idea.  Ignore my cheesy "teacher persona" and enjoy!

questions-song1

Photo Credit: by lusi at http://www.sxc.hu/photo/787433

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