I’ve been taking an online program (and I’ve been doing well thank you) but when I try to watch a French music video or TV I get frustrated because I don’t understand what they’re saying and I feel like quiting. How do I get motivated to continue learning.
Heather, please don’t despair. It took me a long time to really be able to understand spoken French well (that is to say actual French people speaking vs. in the classroom), but one day it just clicked. I know it is frustrating, especially when you can catch some of what they are saying but not all. But I have to say that what you are doing will be very beneficial in the long run. You are making your brain accustomed to hearing the rhythms of native French speakers and exposing your self to vocabulary you are unlikely to encounter in lessons. If you are watching shows or movies in French and have the option of English subtitles, then go for it. This will help you expand your vocabulary. Just remember that if you keep up what you’re doing, you will start to understand better and better. If you quit, you will never understand. Just have some patience and keep listening as much as possible. I promise eventually it will happen.
#1 by marysylvie on July 4th, 2009
Quote
I always said to my students: you never know what life will bring you, so keep learning French.
French is spoken in many areas in the world. You will be surprised how many times it will come handy!
Keep learning!
Bonne chance!
References :
me
#2 by Jenna on July 4th, 2009
Quote
watch French movies/shows/music videos with really attractive actors/actresses.
haha it always makes me care a lot more to know what they’re saying
References :
#3 by sesquilia on July 4th, 2009
Quote
Heather, please don’t despair. It took me a long time to really be able to understand spoken French well (that is to say actual French people speaking vs. in the classroom), but one day it just clicked. I know it is frustrating, especially when you can catch some of what they are saying but not all. But I have to say that what you are doing will be very beneficial in the long run. You are making your brain accustomed to hearing the rhythms of native French speakers and exposing your self to vocabulary you are unlikely to encounter in lessons. If you are watching shows or movies in French and have the option of English subtitles, then go for it. This will help you expand your vocabulary. Just remember that if you keep up what you’re doing, you will start to understand better and better. If you quit, you will never understand. Just have some patience and keep listening as much as possible. I promise eventually it will happen.
References :
Personal experience