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Start for freeThe Power of Motivation and Daily Habits in Learning French
Last year, I embarked on a journey to relearn French, a language I had studied for over a decade in school with little progress. My experience over this year has been nothing short of transformative. I made more progress in this single year of self-study than in all my years of formal education. This article will delve into the daily practices, time management strategies, and resources that propelled my French to new heights, emphasizing the critical role of motivation in this process.
Why Motivation Matters
Before diving into the strategies and tools, it's crucial to acknowledge the role of motivation. For me, reigniting my love for French and aiming for personal accomplishment to become bilingual were key motivators. It's this foundational motivation that spurred commitment and perseverance, even when the journey became challenging.
Starting Point and Initial Steps
I began the year at an A2 level, with a basic understanding but struggling with listening, reading, and sentence structure. The initial step was to counteract negative thoughts by simply taking action. This approach led me to discover various resources and tools, gradually uncovering specific gaps in my knowledge.
Embracing Digital Tools: Jingo and Beyond
Like many language learners, I started with digital tools such as Jingo. Although it has its critics, Jingo was beneficial for easing into language learning and reinforcing the imperfect tense through repetition. However, I eventually moved on from Jingo in search of more efficient methods.
The Role of Face-to-Face Courses and Online Content
Enrolling in a course at my local Alliance Française provided structure, but it was my exposure to Easy French YouTube videos that significantly boosted my learning. The combination of dual English and French subtitles and content that slightly pushed my comfort zone was instrumental. This exposure led to discovering French teachers on YouTube who spoke clearly and slowly, perfect for comprehension exercises at the A2 level.
Expanding Horizons with iTalki and Authentic French Content
To enhance my speaking skills, I turned to iTalki, finding a conversation tutor who made a significant difference in my progress. Attending a bilingual show by comedian Paul Taylor was a milestone, showcasing my improved listening skills. This experience motivated me to leave Alliance Française and join a Lingoda Sprint challenge, further improving my grammar.
Leveraging Technology for Immersive Learning
Exploring authentic French content on Netflix revealed the mismatch between spoken dialogue and subtitles. This challenge led me to discover Language Reactor, a Chrome extension that displays dual subtitles on YouTube and Netflix videos, enabling guilt-free binge-watching as a form of study.
Immersion and Practical Language Use
Participating in a French immersion program in Australia was a key step in applying my language skills in real-world contexts. This experience, along with continuous exposure to French through various activities, solidified my comfort with using French daily.
Daily Practices for Continuous Improvement
To keep improving, it's vital to engage with the language daily through a mix of passive listening and active exercises. My routine included watching French YouTube videos, using Language Reactor, practicing with flashcards, and conversing with native speakers. I also explored a wide range of French content, from podcasts and music to reading materials.
Key Takeaways and Future Goals
My journey to improving my French has taught me the importance of motivation, the power of daily habits, and the effectiveness of combining various learning resources and methods. As I continue to advance, focusing on listening to French audiobooks and reading more complex texts remains a priority.
For those embarking on their language learning journey, remember that consistency, a diverse approach, and a strong motivational foundation are your best allies. Explore, experiment, and find what works best for you in your quest for fluency.
Discover more about my language learning strategies and resources by checking out my video: Mastering French: My Journey from A2 to Fluency in One Year.
