How to Survive High School French

Most colleges like to see two years of foreign language study in high school; but learning a language doesn't come easily to some students, even if they are smart in other subjects. If you are taking French I and not enjoying it, you may feel like you have so many words to remember that you'll never get them all. Read on for a few tips to help you learn could be the difference between passing and failing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• French textbook
• large index cards or other paper
• markers
• CD's or mp3s of French music

1. Notice that some French words are similar to English words. Look for these words and focus on them first, words like "bleu," "admirer," "chat," "lac," and "regarder." They are quick to learn.
2. Try writing out this week's words on a large card or a small poster, and hang them where you'll see them without trying, like next to your mirror, or on the wall above your bed. If you write them in different colors and sizes, you may remember them even better.
3. Each night before you go to sleep, read two sentences in French from your textbook. Try to imagine that you actually talk this way. Say them to yourself as though you really mean them. If you can, picture in your mind what you are saying, or pretend to do the action as you say it.
4. Try to buy or download pop music from France or from French-speaking Canada. Major outlets like Amazon.com now carry many CD's from other countries. Even if you can't understand all the words, try singing along. You'll get a better sense of what French sounds and feels like.
5. If you have an online hobby such as multiple-player interactive games, see if your favorite game has a forum in French. Try to participate a little, since you are already familiar with the game content that they are discussing.
6. Try not to fall behind in normal studying and homework for this class. Learning French is a continual building process. If you take it easy for a month, it will be that much harder to catch up later. The words won't go away!

Tips & Warnings

• When you learn a new noun, try sketching a picture for yourself as you say the word five times.