Can I Learn French by Myself? Learning a new language is in the bucket list of many of us. Dearth of time and rigid structure of classroom programs become an obstacle for most of us and we are unable to pursue this wish of ours. If you are planning to learn French but unable to join a classroom program for the same, you need not worry you can learn the language on your own through online French courses. It will also be a very accomplishing feeling to have learnt the language on your own and being a self-taught French speaker. A lot of people do not believe that learning French on their own is possible, but contrary to this it is very much possible. All you need is motivation and dedication, this combined with the right tools and learning curriculum will help you learn French on your own. Prepare to learn French on your own:Before you sign up for online French courses you must prepare yourself so that you can achieve your target within a set timeline. Firstly, you must set aside time and plan your day in such a manner that you get a certain number of hours each day. You must stay motivated and committed throughout this journey. A self-taught learning experience needs commitment and determination even more than a classroom program. A classroom program has a rigid structure and hence you are supposed to follow the plan. But when you are learning on your own using online resources you will need to give a structure to the whole process on your own. You must also prepare yourself mentally to keep your focus and concentration on the course when you are undertaking one. Frequent distractions will make the whole learning process longer and more frustrating. Therefore, you must choose a time of the day when there is least distraction, and you are the most productive. Practice and assess – the Mantra:To be proficient in any language one needs a lot of practice. Practice makes you fluent and helps you continuously up your game. When it comes to learning a difficult language like French, it is even more important that you practice so that you do not get stuck. The best way to learn a new language like French on your own is to continuously revise, assess and practice.
If you do not revisit what you learn it will slowly fade from your memory. Reading is one of the best ways to become more familiar with vocabulary and complex sentences. You can pick up a genre of your choice like fiction, classic, sci-fi, etc. If you enjoy cooking, you can start reading recipes in French. It is recommended that you read French content for at least thirty minutes every day so that you become comfortable with the language. If you are looking for online courses to learn French, you must look for courses delivered by experienced faculty. Courses that provide enough reading content and practice opportunities are the best way to learn French on your own. What's the easiest way to learn French? Is learning French a goal you have set for yourself? You might be confused, about which is the best way to learn the language and how should you go about it. The number of options available can make the whole decision making process overwhelming. Here are some approaches to learning French and their pros and cons: 1. ImmersionThis approach is about soaking in the language and the culture. You travel to a nation where French is spoken and spend a long time there. This approach connects you to native speakers and you learn about the culture. However, this is expensive and time-consuming. 2. TranslationPick up a copy of your favourite book in French is a good way to learn the language. You can use a dictionary while reading the book. This is a good way to pick up new words and add to your vocabulary. A drawback is that; this approach does not teach you to write or speak the language. 3. Grammar-basedThis approach uses textbooks that focus on the grammar rules. You will be able to build reading and writing skills. It is a cost-effective method to understand the structure of the language. However, this approach does not involve lot of practice and needs efforts to memorize the rules. 4. CommunicativeThis is most common approach seen in schools, where the French language teacher teaches a small group. The curriculum includes reading, listening, writing and speaking. This approach enabled the student to start having conversations in French in a relatively shorter time. The approach however is not customizable and has a pre-decided structure. 5. Vocabulary-basedThis is the approach when you use an online application for learning the vocabulary. You can build the vocabulary very quickly because you repeatedly look at the same words. But this approach does not teach you the grammar. If you are wondering which of these approaches are the best suited for and you and should you register for online French classes to quickly learn the language, you must understand that one size does not fit all. Every learner is different and so are the needs and so you must understand your learning style and have a clear objective of learning the language. You can then pick up the right approach or a mix of different approaches to get the most effective way of learning French.
If you are looking for online French classes, look for an option that gives you the following:
Apart from this if the course can also give you a virtual daily immersion, it will be a cherry on the cake and you will be able to understand the French culture too. Learning French needs you to be motivated and committed and once you identify an approach that suits you, you will be able to quickly pick up the nuances of the language. There is no question that foreign language translation applications are thriving in popularity. As a matter of fact, many people think they will be able to replace conventional language learning. However, you should not count on it. It is incredibly farfetched translation applications will ever take the spot of language learning classes. Numerous translation apps depend on statistics evaluation and algorithms just after examining millions of documents in various languages. These applications have their place, peculiarly when a user requires to search for one specific phrase or word. However they nearly never help in genuinely learning a language of having a conversation. The following are some reasons:
In numerous languages, the inflection applied on a specified letter word entirely changes the definition of a word, one thing you might not understand from looking at your smartphone — Let's take Italian, for example where the word papa when said offer various meanings. Papa could mean the Pope, however when you emphasize the last “a” (papa) , it would mean father. With the use of a translation application to talk, it can be completely agonizing — Regardless of how fluent you are with a smartphone, it will take time to search for a foreign phrase or word, interrupting the cadence and flow of conversation, especially when you have to look for many translations. This can head to an uncomfortable silence, and native language speakers getting more annoyed by the minute. Applications can provide you the incorrect word to express your point — Additionally, dialects frequently vary relying on the area of the country you come visit. You will not understand that from an application. Translation applications do not give you correct sentence syntax — You cannot assume other languages are organized the same as yours. For instance, the place of pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and so forth. differs considerably from one language to another. Applications cannot show emotion Numerous languages (French, Spanish, italian and so on.) depend more than others on gestures and emotion to state a point — You cannot get this from looking at a mobile device. Once you sign up for proper learning courses, this will definitely help you comprehend the culture of country whose language you are learning. This will help make your visit or work project, more rewarding and successful. Again, translation applications have their place, but not for completely learning one language. All in all, learning language through applications is not something that is recommended as it can, in fact, bring in some difficulties to one’s own. Learning language like the French language, could take you a while and energy to perfect it, and yet the benefits should be worth every penny and if you are just depending on apps--then simply, this will not do the trick easily. Trying to learn French, or simply just about any kind of language as an example, could possibly be a very fulfilling life experience. In spite of this, additionally it is a rather time intensive and discouraging procedure, in accordance with the strategy and means for which you are understanding it. Mastering French really should not be a battle. It might not be simple and easy language accessible to you, but within two months of dynamic learning, it is possible to certainly get to a speaking level. Interested in learning French more comprehensively? Cosmopoli'French is pushing the boundaries of education by offering culturally evocative experiences and a practical approach to learning. We are experiential, diverse and a rapid way of learning “real French” . Contact us now for more info on: +61 424 284 586 or get in touch online The french language can come across as intricate to pronounce in the beginning, and even just a little complicated to comprehend. It really isn’t like languages such as English, Swedish, and the tonal ones. French is likely to roll along in a reasonably tedious number of sounds like they have the nasal sounds which appear to sound the same, and yet are not. Additionally, sounds may actually melt collectively from the one word in the last syllable to the very beginning syllable of the following word. These are some points you have to get familiar with as a novice. All those points are something that you should be aware of, noticing, and eventually getting familiar with. As far as pronunciation is concerned, the ‘euh’ sound is something that you should get used to making. Words such as “Je”, “me” “le” and so forth. In French, there are a bunch of ‘euh”. The usage of ‘euh’ works similarly to the usage of ‘aah’ or ‘umm’ by the English speakers for a breather or spacer between phrases or words. As soon as you can, you kind of have to pick up on that and have it flow through as you are learning the French pronunciation. Statements (Positive and Negative) and Questions The advantageous asset of taking a look at instances from lessons you have already learned is that you most likely recognize the words. Commonly, if you are reading a book centres around sentence structure, you are supplied with varieties, in which you do not know the words, which is not exactly helpful Gender and number Japanese is one of the languages that have zero gender and zero number, but French comes with both. In terms of French language, adjectives, pronouns, or even verbs have to agree. Getting familiar with brand new grammar models will take time. You will not be able to learn it on your first try--or even sixth. Though, ultimately it will become second nature Verbs Really shortly you will find out that while in forms of English verb do not change much for individual, in French all forms of the verb change, based on the individual, as well as tense and feeling. These are called verb modifications, the various junction kinds of verbs. It is extremely complicated keep these conjugations in mind. You can spend all the time in the world pouring over conjugation tables. You might remember them tomorrow, then you forget them, so you continuously have refer to them and actually see them in context Subjunctive and Conditional Without realizing that we actually have the same patterns in Engslish when it comes to the verb forms of moods in French. Some people are intimidated by the idea first. Obviously,the English conditional rotates around the “if” word.. For example, in a sentence like “I would go if..” and the likes. It works the same way with the “si” word in French language. When there is uncertainty about whether something will take place or not, the subjunctive is used, which is the first thing you are suggested to notice. You should not worry about whether you can “perfect” it when you speak or write. Slowly but surely, you will get more and more familiar with the subjunctive and the conditional. Interested in learning French more comprehensively? It is best for you to learn French with Cosmopoli French. that offers a holistic approach to learning how to speak, listen, read and write in French. We are experiential, diverse and a rapid way of learning “real French” . Contact us now for more info on: +61 424 284 586
Exceptionally Tasty: Go on Wine Tasting Go to wineries on St Emilion, Bordeaux for varieties that you’d like to taste. You can do some wine tasting sessions in St Emilion and learning on how good the wines are there. You can also bring home wines that you really love to give to your loved ones back home or even just for yourself. I bet your future self would thank you for it. If you’re not a fan of wines, then lucky you, the region of Champagne in France produces one or two bottles of bubbly that are so worth bringing home. You have learned some exceptional things to do in France and I bet you would like to make a visit soon. If you are worry about the language and cultural barrier then it’s best for you to learn all that with Cosmopoli French. We are not going to just teach you the language but also the culture of France. Contact us now for more info on: +61 424 284 586 French is deemed by many as a language that is lovely--basically the language that represents romance and lovey-dovey feeling. It could take you a while and energy to perfect it, nevertheless the benefits should be worth every penny. Trying to learn French, or simply just about any kind of language as an example, could possibly be a very fulfilling life experience. In spite of this, additionally it is a rather time intensive and discouraging procedure, in accordance with the strategy and means for which you are understanding it. Mastering French really should not be a battle. It might not be simple and easy language accessible to you, but within two months of dynamic learning, it is possible to certainly get to a speaking level.
These are several tips that may help your within my French-learning experience:
 You've probably already read one of those catchy headlines: ‘10 secrets to dressing like a French woman’, 'A French woman's secret to staying slim?', ‘8 reasons why French women don’t age’…or maybe ‘Learn how to flirt like a French woman’. Everywhere on the planet, many females seem to be intrigued by the French (woman’s) way of life and want to learn all the secrets of this internationally acclaimed ‘femme française’. Indeed, in the eye of many, French women have it all: they know how to enjoy the pleasures of life whilst still fitting into a size 8. They age gracefully and are savvy fashionistas regardless of their age! On the surface, all this publicity about French women looks pretty flattering. Being a French woman myself, hearing all those praises should make me feel empowered and self-confident. Indeed, I am supposed to know all those life-changing secrets that other women crave to discover. But do I? And do most French women? Well...probably not. The perception of the effortlessly elegant and eternally chic French woman is in reality a double-edged sword for many French ladies. We have no right to be overweight and no room for any fashion ‘faux pas’ – oh quelle horreur! Are we even allowed to be single coming from the ‘so called’ country of love? The expectations of how a French woman acts, looks and behaves are dauntingly high. Faced with the pressure of living up to this impossible standard of perfection, French women in reality must endure the embarrassment of failing to live up to these fantastical perceptions. What happens to French women who don’t dress or look like Parisian fashionistas? Is their ‘Frenchness’ questioned? Are they seen to be the exception to the rule when they are in reality… The rule? So Frenchy…so chic–ish… No one is denying that the French can be chic but often this attribute seems to be associated with the wearer of expensive brands. Interestingly, the amount of money spent in a year by French ladies on clothes is inferior to the amount spent by their female counterparts from the richest EU countries (1).The myth of the French ladies wearing Chanel dresses all year long doesn’t quite fit with the reality of their wallet. Also when the French are asked about their top favorite brands, luxury brands such as Dior or Louis Vuitton are nowhere to be seen. The top brand is Amazon, Au bon Coin (equivalent of Gumtree) ranks number 6, Galerie Lafayette only ranks number 17.(2)  The truth about the French oh-la la body That's a fact, the average size of French women is more petite than the Australians (the most common size amongst French women being a size 10 (20.6%) followed by a size 12 (16,66%) (1) when the average size of Australian women is between 14 and 16 (3), but that being said, the slimmer women (size 6/8), far from representing the majority ‘des francaises’ seem to be the one capturing all the attention. In France, one woman out of three has difficulties finding clothes that fit them (1), as if retailers were also struggling accepting French women real body image. Only 17% of French women see their body as a glamorous asset and when asked what makes them feel good about their body image, 59% of French women answered that it is simply to be able to close their jeans buttons without any struggle. (66% amongst women aged 65 and +).(1) In reality, both French and Australian women are fighting the same battle: the battle against extra kilos. In France, 7 women out of 10 declared they want to lose weight. 30% of women have already been on a diet and 9% have already dieted more than 10 times. This obsession with weight seems to start at a very early age as many women have confessed having starting their diet at age 10.(1) If you still think that French women are effortlessly slim...you might be interested to know that every second, French people spend 96 euros on fad diets or nearly 3 billion euros a year.(4) A chic method for staying slim!  An innate sense of style? 34% of French women wish they had stylist skills to be able to feel beautiful in all circumstances. This figure reaches 46% amongst women under 35.(1) Styling does not seem to come naturally to every French women even though they are praised for their look. Like every nation, France is full of diversity. French women come in different sizes, styles and colours. Yes, French women are beautiful, with or without a Louis Vuitton bag, being a size 8 or 16. Loving France and its culture is also being curious enough to find out what the French are really about, so let’s keep going beyond clichés!  France + love = la vie en rose?
France is in the eye of many the ultimate romantic destination. Our iconic monuments, our beautiful paved streets seem to create the mood for anyone to fall in love. That being said, happy love does not happen for everyone...even in France. 14 million people live alone in the country of love and so for various reasons (single, separated, divorced,widows).(1) The markets of love coaching along with dating websites are booming as the French loneliness is becoming a central focus in the media. The findings presented suggest that the “real” French woman is not dissimilar to any other woman in the world – they stress about not having the perfect body, adore a good bargain, don’t always pull together the most chic ensembles, find great love...lose love.....and can indulge by eating not just “une petite part de gâteau mais tout le gâteau “ (a little slice, but the whole cake!!). Along the same line, all women, being French or not, can find in themselves this intriguing and so attractive 'je ne sais quoi'! Cosmopoli'French (1) Francoscopie 2013 (2) L'étude OC&C Strategy Consultants 2013 (3) The Australian (4) Centre d’information de la dietetique et de la minceur  Today we will be sharing some further advice to help you ‘French up‘ your English speaking world.
At Cosmopoli’French, we believe that learning opportunities are everywhere so everything surrounding you can potentially become a new learning tool. Being adept of creative learning, Cosmopoli’French sees in our hyper technologic world an opportunity to enhance your language skills. Indeed, you will be surprised to see how a technologic device that pretty much never leaves you, can become part of your learning experience, so grab your SMART phone and start to Explore to Learn! Here is the challenge of the week: Put your phone on French mode! To be able to complete this challenge, you will be required to change the language settings on your phone and switch to French. This challenge will not only gives you the opportunity to broaden your vocabulary but will also gives you the chance to work on your pronunciation and written skills. How can this challenge boost your vocabulary? Immediately after having changed the settings on your phone, a lot of new words will come up on your screen: Here are some of them: - Paramètres: settings - Langue: language - Applis: applications - Lecteur mp3: mp3 player - Mes fichiers: my files - Eteindre: swich off - Recherche vocale: voice Search Another way to broaden your vocabulary is to use the French version of your favourite applications such as Facebook or Twitter and have fun with it! After one week on French mode, you will end up with a lot of new words to add to your vocabulary list. How can this challenge help you work on your pronunciation? Go on voice search and do an oral Google search in French. The accurate results will only come up if you pronounce the words properly. You can start with the following: - Restaurants français Melbourne. - Festivals français Melbourne - Films français Melbourne How can this challenge help you work on your written skills? During the challenge week, write at least 3 text messages in French to one of your French friends, to your partner, spouse…or future travel buddy! The message can be very simple, the point of this exercise is to push yourself to write sentences that can be used in every day life situations. Here are a few expressions you can use: - Quoi de neuf: What’s up? - Comment se passe ta journée? How is your day going? - Je pense à toi: Thinking of you - Je t’appelle plus tard: I call you later Have fun et à bientôt! Cosmopoli'French  Shopping, next to visiting museums and monuments, seems to be one of the primary attractions of France.
Indeed, the French are well-known for their sense of style and fashion so naturally most travellers who visit France are excited about going shopping in the world's most popular tourist destination. To be able to fully enjoy the experience, nothing beats interactions with the locals: an opportunity to better grasp local cultural differences whilst getting some fashion tips. Here is the challenge of the week. Do your shopping in a French shop and use as little English as possible. *Useful expressions to use during your challenge* Je cherche... I am looking for... J'aurais besoin de quelques conseils ...I would need some advice. Auriez-vous une taille... ? Would you have a size....? Où sont les cabines d'essayage?...Where are the change rooms? C'est trop court/long/serré ... It is too short/long/ tight Je le/la prends! I take it! Don't hesitate to take a few minutes to learn or revise your colours! *What you get from this challenge* - New French pieces in your wardrobe. - A safe training environment ( you can still switch to English if it becomes too difficult) before your next attempt in a French speaking country - The pleasure of discovering the French assets of your own city -The opportunity to broaden your French vocabulary and boost your confidence If you are in Melbourne, here are a few good addresses - Le panier http://www.lepanier.com.au/#! - Blue Illusion http://www.blueillusion.com/ - Gris Metal https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gris-Metal-Melbourne/124626760881924 If you are in a different city, don't hesitate to research on Google to find the best French shops close to you. A bientôt! |
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