French Lesson Plan: Explore French-Arab Culture through Raï Music and the Song “C’est la Vie”

Music is more than sound — it tells stories about people, places, and traditions. “C’est la Vie” became a global hit in 2012, but behind the catchy rhythm lies a deeper message about celebrating life and embracing joy, even during challenges.

Yahya Essaira, our student intern from Morocco, created this video and lesson plan for your French students to learn the story behind the global hit, “C’est la Vie,” its ties to Raï music, and how the song helped shaped his own cultural identity.

Lesson Plan

1. Introduction & Student video

• Hand out the student worksheet and read aloud the “Introduction” section together.
• Play “C’est la Vie – A Joyful French-Arabic Song | Forum by Prométour”on Youtube
• Ask: “What languages do you hear?” and “What does Yahya say about the song?”
• Transition: “Now let’s explore where this music comes from.”

2. The Maghreb & Cultural Context

• Read “Le Maghreb arabe et la diaspora nord-africaine” aloud or in pairs.
• Pause to locate the Maghreb countries on a map.

3.  Listening – C’est la Vie by Cheb Khaled

• Play “C’est la vie” by Khaled on Youtube
• Encourage students to listen for both Arabic and French lyrics.
• Ask: “How does this song make you feel? What rhythms or instruments stand out?”

3.  Reading– Raï music & C’est la Vie

• Students read silently or in pairs Qu’est-ce que la musique raï ? and  L’histoire derrière « C’est la Vie »

3.  Writing – Comprehension, Interpretation, Cultural Comparison, & Reflection

• Students complete the written response questions, then share their answers in group discussion.

Take it a step further…

Take your students to Morocco!