Language Learning

Nearly the end of French A1.1

by Matthew
Almost at the end of French A1.1!

Almost at the end of French A1.1!

Nearly the end of French A1.1!
Fast approaching the end of my French course. Lots more to go if I am to reach fluency.

Having started out not entirely new to the French language, after 12+ years since my last lesson in the subject, I’ve recalled most things pretty well. I’m still however disappointed by my lack of outside work. I generally complete most of the homework (Les devoirs), however, more often than not I feel that I could do more outside practice. The intentions are there, I started duolingo but have not really kept on top of it (really should do a little a day).

It’s not so much self-motivation because I’ve been able to self-motivate throughout my open university degree.

I think it’s more a case of sheer burnout! I’ve been intensively studying and writing assignments/projects since October 2014! Even now I’m planning to write an Economics project off my back outside of university.

So, maybe this month and a bit coming up of total nothingness, is really what I need to recharge these batteries that are really running low. I plan on spending the time to meet people who I haven’t yet, or have neglected, sorry all! The faces and individual personalities of those people I talk to and love are what will help me recharge! I’m really am looking forward to seeing you all as I promised. I’m grateful to have so many of you amazing people occupying my life 🙂

Another thing I need to fix is my dreadful sleep pattern. Which has probably contributed to my lack of organisation/motivation towards the end of this course. Don’t get me wrong. I’m extremely motivated by the French language/culture and I’m hugely committed to the end goal (leaving the UK) but my insomnia is affecting me negatively.

Overall, it’s been positive for me learning through the Institut. I’m grateful to have met so amazing people on this course. Many of whom are multi-lingual. I need to now take advantage of my membership once the course has ended.

For anyone thinking of studying French with the Institut Français I say this, do it! It’s a steep learning curve. Nearly all communication in lessons is done in French but to good reason (you learn quicker). If you don’t understand just ask there are no silly questions, the teacher will often aid you with a charade. The benefits you get being a member of the Institute are second to none. You have access to the French cinema (inc two free tickets) and La Médiathèque (the largest French library in the UK) as well as the online library. You can read many French newspapers free of charge online such as Le Monde etc through EuroPresse. Don’t forget the discount you get at Le Bistrot! Who can resist tasty French food especially at discounted prices if you are a member.

I’m looking to expand my French contacts (people) so if to you know French people who want to brush up on English, or just in general please send them my way 🙂

Till next time… peace :mrgreen:

Getting Frenchified

by Matthew

Getting Frenchified – A new term that’s happily happening to me.

The first week (re)learning French has been exciting for me. I’ve lost a lot of what I thought I knew but also remembered quite a bit. Feel quite positive at the moment, I’ve only had two lessions so far my next one will be today (later in the evening).

Last week Monday, I was nervous about getting started with my first French lesson. Whilst waiting on the platform at Southbury (my local) station I heard a Belgian girl talking about Belgium with her companion. I got talking with her and she mentioned that she was from Flanders and how I would like Vilvoorde if I go to Brussels. I would have liked to speak to her more but didn’t get her name or number!

Anyway, I’m determined to get more involved in French culture, aka getting Frenchified. I’ve been given a great opportunity by the Institut Français who have given me a free year membership along with my study of the language. I want to meet French people, talk French and feel more comfortable talking French. Right now, I don’t have the confidence to talk French to people (in particular natives) except for a couple that I am really comfortable with. I’ve kind of become involved with meetup.com, to meet and socialise with more French speakers. I’m also interested in socialising with Belgian people in London more. Going to try and find groups and people that I can meet 🙂

Regarding the Institut Français, I aim to make use of the cinema. To watch French films, The prime one is Timbuktu at the moment and its subtitled so should help. I also want to explore other ways of connecting with French people and getting involved with French culture there. If anyone can suggest other ways in which I could get more Frenchified please comment.

I’ve got to work on my numbers, and French grammer a little more. My pronounciation is not too far off.

I’ve met a French girl that lives just outside of London. She’s pretty cool and it’s interesting getting to know her. Hoping to see her some more 🙂

This week in images

I also ended up eating indian food at a restaurant for the first time that I can remember last week Friday. No snaps unfortunately.

Edit: I started writing this on Monday 15th and only published it on the 19th! I went to Brussels again on the 16th and so I will make a seperate post about my journey. Pics and videos to come! It’s been a hectic few weeks for me. Bit unusual and I’m not coping! 🙂

Out of interest I need some business cards. I have a very basic design, could do with a little tweaking but simple is best and all that. They are going to be used for a wide range of purposes from professional job app to more informal encounters. If you a designer please comment below or mail me using the contact form.

I’m also thinking of writing a Economic paper (my second after my university report) about the Economics of developing countries focusing on the continent of Africa. If I do, the paper would be published and released here.