I taught myself French to C2 level, so here is how I think you should learn it

Summary

In this video, Iclal shares her journey of teaching herself French over the past eight years and offers valuable tips for anyone looking to learn the language independently. She discusses her experience of starting from scratch, learning through free resources, and progressing to fluency. Iclal emphasizes the importance of structured learning, consuming content in French, and practicing regularly. She highlights useful websites, YouTube channels, and learning strategies for beginners to advanced learners. Her approach shows that with dedication and the right resources, you can achieve fluency without formal classes or immersion.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start with structured content: Use playlists like Learn French with Alexa to cover French basics (A1-A2).
• 😀 Patience is key: Learning a new language takes time, so be patient and don't rush through the process.
• 😀 Use free resources: Websites like Le Point du Fle provide a wide variety of exercises and materials for learning French for free.
• 😀 Don't just memorize vocabulary: Focus on understanding verbs and making sentences from the start.
• 😀 Learn in context: Learn new words through sentences and real-world usage, rather than memorizing isolated lists.
• 😀 Don't ignore grammar: Use a dedicated notebook to keep track of verb conjugations and grammar rules in a structured way.
• 😀 Focus on listening: Repeatedly watch French videos with French subtitles, and review the same content until you fully understand it.
• 😀 Intermediate learners face a plateau: Consuming more content and actively engaging with the language helps break through this stage.
• 😀 Understand the importance of exposure: Continuously consume content, such as podcasts or YouTube videos, to improve comprehension and vocabulary.
• 😀 Specialized content helps: At advanced levels, focus on topics related to your interests or career to build specialized vocabulary and knowledge.

Q & A

How did Iclal learn French without formal classes?

Iclal learned French by immersing herself in the language, mostly through online resources. She focused on listening to French songs, watching videos, and using structured online courses like Learn French with Alexa, all while using self-discipline and dedication to practice regularly.

What was Iclal's approach to learning French during the first few years?

In the first two or three years, Iclal focused mostly on listening to French content, mimicking a baby's language acquisition process. However, she realized that a more structured approach was needed to progress effectively.

What resources does Iclal recommend for beginners learning French?

Iclal recommends the 'French Essential Course' by Learn French with Alexa on YouTube. She found it to be comprehensive for covering A1 and A2 levels, offering lessons from the alphabet to basic verb conjugations.

What mistakes do language learners often make when studying French, according to Iclal?

A common mistake is memorizing vocabulary in isolation, without context. Instead, Iclal suggests learning verbs and making sentences from the start to understand the structure and meaning of the language.

How does Iclal suggest tackling French verb conjugations?

Iclal suggests using a small notebook to focus specifically on French verb conjugations. Instead of trying to memorize all tenses at once, she recommends learning the present tense first and gradually moving to other tenses.

How can self-learners structure their French studies without a teacher?

Iclal advises self-learners to use structured online materials like YouTube playlists, language courses, and websites like Le Point du Fle. These resources help learners organize their studies, covering various topics in a logical order.

What strategy helped Iclal move from beginner to intermediate level in French?

Iclal credits her progress to watching French videos with French subtitles, repeatedly if necessary, to improve comprehension. She also recommends actively engaging with the content by writing or speaking about it in French.

Why does Iclal emphasize the importance of consuming content in French?

Iclal believes that consuming content in French is essential for becoming proficient. By watching French media, listening to podcasts, and engaging with the language regularly, learners can enhance their vocabulary and understanding.

What advice does Iclal give for reaching an advanced (B2+) level in French?

To reach an advanced level, Iclal recommends immersing yourself in authentic French media and engaging with content relevant to your personal interests or profession. She stresses the importance of speaking and producing language, not just passively consuming it.

What was Iclal's experience preparing for the C1 and C2 French exams?

Iclal prepared for her C1 and C2 exams by taking French courses, studying materials in French, and reading classical French literature. She also specialized in political science topics, as that was her field of study, which helped her attain higher proficiency.