How to Study French
Learning to study a foreign language is a lot like learning to play a musical instrument or a sport. It requires regular practice! Your ability to understand and communicate in French will increase each day---if you are willing to use the language! Here are some recommendations for studying.

Take advantage of class time. Listen carefully when new material is presented, and take notes, if appropriate. Ask questions!

Don't expect to understand everything. You aren't expected to! Your comprehension will improve over time, so be patient.

Expect to make some mistakes! Mistakes are a normal part of the learning process.(Even the teacher sometimes makes them!)

Learn to make some intelligent guesses. There are hundreds of cognates (words that look or sound the same as their English equivalents). Learn to recognize them and use them. What do you think the following French words mean? : bicyclette , café, intelligent, tradition, village)

Expect some language and cultural differences.

Practice everyday. Spend 15-20 minutes reviewing, in addition to any assigned homework you may have.

Experiment to find your own learning style. Some of you may need to write new words five or more times in order to learn them, and others may find making flashcards more helpful. Here are some suggestions: