I've had a couple of "brand-new", "real-beginner" students starting this year and I thought I'd add this post on learning a new language, because YES it can be daunting.
I've learnt several languages myself, and I know the feeling of starting from scratch, and feeling:
- you just don't know a thing,
- it's all to much, and
- it all becomes soup very quickly on your head.
A bit like that really . . .
yes, I have been there and I use this experience to develop my programs for students.
So, what helps when you are just beginning a language and feel there is just such a large mountain facing you.
First of all, I refer you to my post
here where I discussed ways to improve your French (or any other language for that matter).
Second, set yourself small, achievable goals.
No point telling yourself that your goal is to speak French in 1, 3 or 6 months. Unless you're a genius, and I'm not saying you're not, it's very unlikely to be an attainable goal. It's not really specific and measurable either, although I do admit it has a timeframe attached to it.
I am wary of methods and tutors/schools claiming to lead you to proficiency in such timeframes.
what's truly likely to happen?
- You cram too much information at once
- There is little time to digest and practise new information
- You become disheartened when you realise you won't reach your goal
- You drop it and it's another 3 years before you take up the courage to start again
Instead, I would recommend setting yourself meaningful SMART (Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Timely) goals that will actually give you a sense of achievement early on, and continue to do so as you learn.
Depending on your needs and wants, it could be:
- learning to introduce yourself and learning everyday greetings
- learning to talk about your tastes and distastes
- asking for directions
- ordering food
- expanding your MAISON vocabulary (if like one of my past students you are lucky enough to own a house in Provence and are renovating it).
A vous de jouer!
