How to study a language
Most of the time learning a language requires plain memorization. You memorize
vocabulary words (meaning and spelling), verbs (meaning and endings) and any other
grammar rules.
How to memorize
Note cards (this can also be done on quizlet.com)
This is a great way to learn vocabulary meaning and verb endings.
English word / French word
Verb (infinitive and subject)
English verb (infinitive)
/ general ending or specific conjugation
(especially irregular)
/ French verb (infinitive)
*** note cards work best if you make them as soon as possible and use them every day!
Columns
You will receive a list of vocabulary for each chapter. You can fold the sheet in
half and look at the English side to say or write the French. Writing in French is a
good way of getting it in your head; after all most of your quizzes and tests will be
in writing!
Spelling Bee
Have someone tell you an English or Spanish word and spell the Spanish word
(in French ). You can also write in on paper or white board if you have one at
home.
Parlez-vous français?
Talk or text with your friends in French! (Yes I know you don’t know all the
vocabulary that you use in English, but have fun with it and use it as much as
possible)
Games **
Come up with different games to practice. Also check out the websites below.
Surround Sound **
Surround yourself with the language. Watch your favorite movie in French or listen
to French-speaking songs. Teach what you know to your parents or friends or
stuffed animals!
** Here are some websites with games, audio and other French related items.
-french-games.net (lessons and games)
-languageguide.org/french/vocabulary/
(vocabulary with audio, grammar and readings)
-bbc.co.uk/schools/primarylanguages/french/ (vocabulary, songs and games)
-quia.com/shared/french/
(vocabulary and grammar)
-www.quia.com/pages/burlison/brinkfrench
-digitaldialects.com/French.htm
-tresbienfrench.com/games
(mainly vocabulary)
(mainly vocabulary)
-primarygamesarena.com/French
-bonjour.com/
(related to our topics in French I)
(all different categories)
(limited free lessons but great audio for each word)
** Here are some apps that are worth checking out:
-duolingo
-babbel
-learn French by MindSnacks
-Innovative language 101
Your way
If you have any other way to make French more fun and easier to remember, use
it and share with others maybe you can help someone else with your way!
Above all find fun ways to learn that works for you!, it will make things easier and you
will remember them longer – remember that once a chapter is over that doesn’t mean
that you can forget the information. A language is learnt by building on past concepts.
(You are still using the words you used when you were 5 years old. Just because you
turned six, seven, eight…… that didn’t mean you could forget everything from the
previous year.) This is the same thing!
BONUS
-If you are creative and come up with a fun and USEFUL (not just to you) way to
remember a grammar rule or verb conjugation (i.e. putting them into a song or beat or
dance….), present it to the class and earn E.C.
It has to work for all kinds of student and I am still the judge for the E.C.!
-You can also research a Francophone holiday and present your findings on the day of
the festivity. You need to check with me in advance if you choose to do this. We will
celebrate some holidays so those days can’t be used. (5-10 points)
-If you find French around you (i.e. instructions, labels….) bring the item to school for
E.C. it cannot be something found and printed from the internet. (1-5 points)
- If you attend any French related event or activities (i.e. French artist showing at a
museum), bring your ticket and a short paragraph about the event and what you
thought. The paper must have parent/guardian signature. (5-10 points)
-If you go eat at a French restaurant (La Baguette Bistro (north May, OKC = $$$), La
Baguette Bakery and Café (West Norman = $), Crêperie and European Café (Midwest
City = $), The Melting Pot (downtown OKC = $$$), or any place where you ate a French
meal. Write a paper about what you ate and what you thought of the place and food –
be a restaurant/food critic. The paper must have parent/guardian signature. (5-10
points)
- If you listen or watch French radio, news, or other programs online, write one page in
English about it and have your parent/guardian sign it. Be careful of appropriate
content! (5-10 points)