French language Q&A Forum

In this example, the English translation seems like the present tense ... "is sitting".  But "assis" is the past participle for the verb s'asseoir / to sit.  How would this be described gramatically, or why not use l'imparfait or present tense? 

Also is this grammatical usage of a past participle "seated", unique to the verb s'asseoir?    Thank you.

Here is the example from above: 

Mon frère est assis dans la rangée devant moi.My brother is sitting in the row before me.

I live in New Brunswick, Canada, and in French we are called Nouveau-Brunswick. Is that just because Canada is more French than the US? Just curious.

This is from the lesson- c’est is used when making statements or giving opinions about something in general or nonspecific. The adjective that follows is always masculine. (Sorry, it’s in my notes so not sure if direct quote but probably is.)

Question: Is it not only always masculine but singular as well?

Eg. Tu aimes les montagnes? = You like mountains? (In general)

Would it be - Oui, c’est magnifique!

This question is not specifically in the above lessons: 

My understanding is you use il/elle est or ils/elles sont with unmodified religions, nationalities or professions. Is this correct?

Il est professeur. Elles sont catholiques.

BUT if the noun is modified, then use c’est or ce sont plus an article/determiner. Is this correct?

C’est un professeur d’histoire. Ce sont mes amies françaises.

Thank you for your help! 

Still not sure how to distinguish the use of these two.  Any help?