Learning a foreign language such as French is fun. At the same time, it can feel overwhelming, especially if you are new to the subject. Here are a few simple steps to take in order to make your language learning successful:
- Listen to French spoken texts such as television programs, French music and your teacher’s instructions. You can also find listening resources on the Education Perfect website and your Gateway class page.
- Read. Reading broadens your vocabulary quickly. You can find French written resources on your Gateway class page. Did you know that there is a French section in the school library? Feel free to borrow a book and browse one during your lunch breaks.
- Write. Your French booklet or workbook contains several writing tasks. Taking notes by hand and completing your French booklet activities diligently will improve your spelling and grammar.
- Speak. The only way to become a confident speaker is to speak regularly. Aim at participating enthusiastically in all class conversations. There will be numerous partner or group activities in class whose purpose is to improve your speaking skills. Have fun exploring new sounds and intonations. I would also recommend you read words and expressions aloud when completing Education Perfect homework tasks. Also, feel free to have a chat in French with your French teacher outside of class.
- Revise. Regular weekly revision will help you memorise new words and expressions.
- Enjoy! Keep a positive mindset towards French and foreign languages in general. You will notice that studying a foreign language will improve your English skills as well as it creates more connections in the brain. Learning about other cultures will give you a better understanding of the world, which will increase your sense of empathy and belonging in this increasingly global world.
Tuija Hast, Head of LOTE