Tips for Learning French avec Madame Laing

Dear student, Whether you are: ◦In French 1, just being introduced to the French language… ◦In French 2, proud of yourself for having successfully completed French 1… ◦In French 3, anticipating the Checkpoint B Examination… ◦In French 4 choosing to continue your study of the French language… ◦In French 5, because you simply adore the French language… Here are some helpful tips for truly “learning” the language in a meaningful way!

Tip #1: Devote time outside of class to French activities To actually learn and develop an appreciation for the French language will take your willingness to make efforts outside of class. Understand that outside of class, there is whole other world where French is spoken every day, and used as a primary means of communication in many cultures.

 Language and culture go hand in hand. Learning French is more than just verbs and vocabulary.  Learning French is about communicating with people and developing an appreciation for the art, music, food, and history of the many francophone countries around the world.  By making an effort, you will develop an appreciation for, and dedication to, learning French.

Tip #2: Watch television and movies in French Try watching the news in French. At first you will not understand much of what is being spoken, but after trying, you may notice that there are a lot of French words that sound similar and mean the same as English words. The news also has a lot of pictures and videos up in the corners, to guide you.

◦Watch commercial breaks on news shows and use the visual aids, while listening for new vocabulary words or expressions. ◦Watch commercials to learn more about the French culture. Many American products are also marketed in France and Canada. You may be able to recognize them. ◦Canadian television includes French language. Watch shows in French to learn conversational French.  It will probably be easier for you to start learning vocabulary from the news first, before moving on to sitcoms or cartoons.

 Thinking about watching your favorite movie AGAIN? Try setting the language settings to French with English subtitles. After a while, if you are very brave, set the language settings to French with French subtitles. You will begin to make connections by already being familiar with the storyline.  By watching television in French, you will strengthen your listening skills.

Tip #3: Visit French websites  Visit French websites or download French apps with activities and games to practice your skills and introduce you to new vocabulary.  Visit French news websites and keep yourself updated with what is happening in the French- speaking world.Look for the translation option, and switch the site to English language if you find yourself becoming too frustrated. Later, go back and challenge yourself.  By visiting websites, you will strengthen your reading skills.

Tip #4: Study even when you are not assigned to do so. Take the time to revisit what was taught in class, and you will be more likely to really learn the material and be able to use it. Make a habit of spending at least minutes each day learning and/or practicing. By taking the time to study outside of class, you will notice a significant improvement in your abilities.

Tip #5: Learn a song  There are various children's songs, as well as a variety of popular songs, originally written in English, which were later translated into French. You may already recognize the tunes.  Just keep in mind that the translation is likely not word for word, so you should still look up the exact meaning of the French lyrics.  By learning a song, you will improve your memory and pronunciation skills. And you will have fun too!

Tip #6: Choose an aspect of culture which interests you Tip #6: Choose an aspect of culture which interests you (for example: art, history, music, travel, geography, shopping, food, etc)  Make this aspect your personal hobby.  Teach others about this, or find out if you can do projects in French or other subject areas, based on your hobby.  Having something meaningful to YOU will make your study of French more worthwhile and interesting.

Tip #7: Visit museums and restaurants Tip #7: Visit museums and restaurants  Visit places where you can either experience or learn about the language or culture.  Sainte Marie among the Iroquois is a Living History Museum and re-creation of the French Mission that stood on the shores of Onondaga Lake from , near Liverpool, New York.  There are many local places that you can visit, such as French restaurants. Don’t forget about Canada, located two hours to our north!  By visiting museums and restaurants, you will get to experience the fun of learning French.

Tip # 8: Look for authentic French realia  While in the grocery store or out shopping, look for French words on billboards, product labels, commercials, etc, and you will soon find that the French language is indeed very close to you.  If you take a trip or vacation, look for brochures or travel guides with French included.

Tip #9: Get others involved  Find someone else who is also dedicated to learning French, and set up a study partnership or group.  Teach French to a family member or relative.  Exchange ideas with others. Come up with fun and interesting ways to study together.  Share them with Madame Laing as well, because she may find them so outstanding that she will want to borrow them…in exchange for bonus points

Tip #10: Find what works for you Tip #10: Find what works for you  All of these tips may not be realistic or possible for you, and that is totally fine!  Figure out which of these tips work for you and begin your course of action. Remember to share what you do, in class! The fact that you are already dedicated is the most important step.  French is fun, and I truly hope that you will discover this for yourself! Bonne chance et bon voyage!