National French Week, sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of French, was celebrated at Marian Nov. 5-9.

The purpose of this celebration is to highlight the many contributions of French explorers, artists, musicians, scientists and philosophers to world culture and civilization.

French is spoken by more than 200 million people in 43 countries on five continents. More than 10,000 French teachers across the United States and their students organized events according to the following themes: science, technology and careers; arts, arts and crafts; music; cuisine; and sports, games and traditions.

French students at Marian Catholic High School, under the direction of their teacher, Mrs. Maureen Heffelfinger, displayed posters and flags of the French-speaking countries in the hallway to advertise the week.

A daily trivia contest with questions pertaining to French culture related to the theme of the day was open to the entire school, including faculty and staff.

The winners were chosen by lottery and announced at the end of the day. During the week, 36 students, faculty and staff, Spanish students or former French students wore the official French T-shirt that they purchased. Each of the French classes had a party and enjoyed some French foods such as crepes, madeleines, cream puffs, éclairs, French bread and cheese. To end the week they played French games in class.