Links

Wanadoo
URL: http://perso.wanadoo.fr/udaf.ardeche/udaf/medaille_fam_fr.htm
Description: At this site, you'll discover one way that families are honored in France. (The UDAF and UNAF mentioned refer to organizations that work and lobby in support of families.)

Allocations Familiales
URL: http://www.caf.fr/catalogue/
Description: This site provides information on a variety of benefits (prestations) and allowances (allocations) accorded by the French government to families for a variety of circumstances.

Convertisseur Universel de Devises
URL: http://www.xe.com/ucc/fr/
Description: : Calculate the rate of exchange for most common currencies (devises). Type in a given number of Euros and see the equivalent amount in the chosen currency.

Questions

1. Before looking at web sites, indicate in what ways your country honors or recognizes the family? Are families accorded special privileges? How are families helped by the government?

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2. Describe the purpose of the "award" that French families may receive. What are the categories in which it is awarded? Can you determine who established the award and the number of recent recipients? Is there an equivalent recognition in your country?

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3. Look for information on benefits awarded to families related to their children. What criteria determine the amount of benefits paid to each family by the government? What is the benefit (in dollars) paid to a family similar to yours?

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4. In what other circumstances might French families be eligible for government benefits? Which do you find the most interesting? the most surprising?

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5. In class: Share your feelings with the other students. Brainstorm the various ways families are accorded special privileges or are honored in your country. In your opinion, what is an appropriate role for the government in supporting families? Do you agree with the system used by the French government? Is it necessary or appropriate for your country?

Either print your answers out for submission or email them to your instructor.