This part 3 of our How to learn French in 6 months series. If you haven't read previous issues yet, here you go:
đ«đ· Learn From Meghan's Mistakes!
Meghan spent months trying out techniques like vocabulary memorization, spaced repetition, and gamification apps like Duolingo. None of it worked, instead it ended up being total waste of time and money. She had a breakthrough only after discovering Get French Classes where she went through our active immersion, that helped her:
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build the daily habits of speaking French,
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practice under real-life scenarios through private French classes,
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improve fluency through group classes with other French learners.
Join one of our French courses and start speaking French today.
Going from A2 to B1 in months 5 and 6: Sprucing up your speech and written skills and becoming an every day, every minute French speaker
Now that you have the basics to sustain in a 30-minute conversation, weâll work on improving your ability to speak more proficiently like a native French speaker.
For this last part of your French learning experience, weâll focus on some more technical grammatical rules. Youâll also learn how to connect the dots between stories that happened in the past and ones thatâll happen in the future.Â
Month 5: Transitioning to intermediate level
At this point, youâre probably on the advanced end of the A2 CEFR level, so you can input more content native speakers, and eventually output some decent content too. Now, letâs work on improving your output to make it sound more and more native.
Week 17: Future tense and conditional mood
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Day 1: Introduction to the conditional mood
We recommend "Le conditionnel présent en français" by Parlez-vous FRENCH : Learn French Online for learning about the conditional mood and its conjugation.
Practice conjugating verbs in the conditional mood and understanding its usage in expressing hypothetical situations, polite requests, and giving advice.
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Write 10 sentences using the conditional mood to express hypothetical situations, polite requests, or advice. Use a variety of regular and irregular verbs and different subject pronouns. |
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Day 2: Expressing preferences and desires using the conditional mood
Learn how to use the conditional mood to express preferences and desires, such as "J'aimerais voyager davantage" (I would like to travel more) and "Je voudrais apprendre Ă jouer du piano" (I would like to learn to play the piano).
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Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) describing your ideal weekend using the conditional mood to express your preferences and desires. |
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Day 3: Using the conditional mood for hypothetical situations
Practice using the conditional mood to describe hypothetical situations and their potential consequences, such as "Si j'avais plus d'argent, j'achĂšterais une grande maison" (If I had more money, I would buy a big house).
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Write 5 sentences describing hypothetical situations and their consequences using the conditional mood. Use a variety of verbs and subject pronouns. |
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Day 4: Polite requests and giving advice with the conditional mood
Learn how to use the conditional mood to make polite requests and give advice, such as "Pourriez-vous m'aider avec cette tĂąche ?" (Could you help me with this task?) and "Tu devrais faire plus d'exercice" (You should exercise more).
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Write a short dialogue (10-12 lines) between two colleagues, with one asking for help and the other giving advice using the conditional mood. |
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Day 5: Expressing intentions and plans
Learn how to express intentions and plans using various structures, such as "avoir l'intention de" (to intend to), "compter faire" (to plan to do), and "projeter de" (to plan to).
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Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) describing your intentions and plans for the next five years. Use the structures you learned to convey your goals and aspirations. |
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Day 6: Combining the conditional mood and expressions of intention
Practice using the conditional mood and expressions of intention together in various contexts, such as discussing future plans and making hypothetical statements.
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Write a short essay (150-200 words) about what you would do if you could take a year off from work or school. Use the conditional mood to express your hypothetical plans and the expressions of intention to describe your goals. |
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Day 7 : Review and consolidation
Review the conditional mood and expressions of intention, focusing on their usage in different contexts.
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Create a 3-4 minute video presentation about your dream job and what you would do if you had that job. Use the conditional mood to describe the hypothetical situation and your responsibilities, and use expressions of intention to discuss your career goals. Share your video with your study partner or language exchange group for feedback. |
Week 18: Relative pronouns and subordinate clauses
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Day 1 : Introduction to relative pronouns (qui and que)
Watch "Les pronoms relatifs 'qui' et 'que' en français" by Le French Club to learn the relative pronouns "qui" (who, which, that) and "que" (whom, which, that) and their usage in relative clauses.
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Write 10 sentences using "qui" and "que" to combine two simple sentences into one complex sentence. Be sure to correctly identify the antecedents and use the right relative pronoun. |
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Day 2: Relative pronouns (dont and oĂč)
"Les pronoms relatifs 'dont' et 'oĂč' en français" by Guillaume PosĂ© - Professeur de Français and The perfect French with Dylane are great videos to learn the relative pronouns "dont" (whose, of which) and "oĂč" (where, when) and their usage in relative clauses.
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Write 10 sentences using "dont" and "oĂč" to combine two simple sentences into one complex sentence. Make sure youâre correctly using these relative pronouns to provide additional information about the antecedent. |
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Day 3: Practicing relative pronouns in context
Practice using all four relative pronouns (qui, que, dont, and oĂč) in different contexts, such as describing people, objects, and places, or providing explanations and background information.
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Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) describing your favorite book, movie, or TV show. Use all four relative pronouns to provide additional information and create more complex sentences. |
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Day 4: Introduction to subordinate clauses
Learn about the structure and function of subordinate clauses and how they are connected to the main clause using relative pronouns and other linking words.
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Identify the subordinate clauses in a provided text and analyze their structure and function. Rewrite 5 of the sentences, replacing the subordinate clauses with simple phrases or adjectives. |
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Day 5: Constructing subordinate clauses
Practice constructing subordinate clauses using relative pronouns and other linking words, such as "parce que" (because), "bien que" (although), and "si" (if).
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Write 10 complex sentences using subordinate clauses introduced by various linking words. Check to ensure youâre creating grammatically correct and meaningful sentences. |
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Day 6 : Combining sentences using relative pronouns and subordinate clauses
Learn strategies for combining simple sentences into more complex ones using relative pronouns and subordinate clauses.Â
Practice identifying opportunities to combine sentences and choosing the appropriate linking words.
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Take a short text (80-100 words) and rewrite it. Connect/combine sentences using relative pronouns and subordinate clauses to create a more cohesive and sophisticated paragraph. |
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Day 7: Review and consolidation
Review the concepts of relative pronouns and subordinate clauses, focusing on their usage in different contexts and their role in creating more complex and informative sentences.
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Write a short essay (200-250 words) on a topic of your choice, such as a memorable experience or a current event. Use relative pronouns and subordinate clauses to create more complex and engaging sentences. Share your essay with your study partner or language exchange group for feedback. |
Week 19: Comparatives and superlatives
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Day 1 : Introduction to comparatives (plus, moins, aussi)
âLes comparatifs en français (plus, moins, aussi)â by Français avec Pierre is the perfect video to learn how to form and use comparative structures with "plus" (more), "moins" (less), and "aussi" (as).
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Write 10 comparative sentences using "plus," "moins," and "aussi" to compare various aspects of your life, such as your hobbies, friends, or daily routines. |
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Day 2: Irregular comparatives (meilleur, pire, moindre)
Learn about irregular comparative forms, such as "meilleur" (better), "pire" (worse), and "moindre" (lesser), and how to use them in sentences.
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Assignment: Write 5 sentences using irregular comparative forms to compare different aspects of your life or current events. |
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Day 3: Practicing comparatives in context
Practice using comparatives in various contexts, such as making recommendations, expressing preferences, or analyzing data.
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Assignment: Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) comparing two cities, countries, or cultures you are familiar with. Use a variety of comparative structures to highlight the similarities and differences between them. |
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Day 4: Introduction to superlatives (le/la/les plus, le/la/les moins)
Watch the videos "Les superlatifs en français (le/la/les plus, le/la/les moins)" by French School TV and Learn French With Alexa to learn to form and use superlative structures with "le/la/les plus" (the most) and "le/la/les moins" (the least).
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Assignment: Write 10 superlative sentences using "le/la/les plus" and "le/la/les moins" to describe various aspects of your life, such as your favorite books, movies, or places to visit. |
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Day 5: Irregular superlatives (le meilleur, le pire, le moindre)
Learn about irregular superlative forms, such as "le meilleur" (the best), "le pire" (the worst), and "le moindre" (the least), and how to use them in sentences.
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Assignment: Write 5 sentences using irregular superlative forms to describe different aspects of your life or current events. |
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Day 6: Practicing superlatives in context
Practice using superlatives in various contexts, such as making recommendations, expressing opinions, or describing achievements.
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Assignment: Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) about a memorable trip or experience you had. Use a variety of superlative structures to highlight the most and least enjoyable aspects of the trip or experience. |
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Day 7 : Review and consolidation
Review the concepts of comparatives and superlatives, focusing on their usage in different contexts and their role in making language more expressive and persuasive.
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Assignment: Write a short essay (200-250 words) comparing and contrasting two topics of your choice, such as two historical figures, two educational systems, or two forms of art. Use a variety of comparative and superlative structures to make your essay more engaging and informative. Share your essay with your study partner or language exchange group for feedback. |
Week 20: Idiomatic expressions and vocabulary expansion
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Day 1: Introduction to common French idiomatic expressions
We recommend the video "Les expressions idiomatiques françaises les plus courantes" by Français avec Pierre to learn about common French idiomatic expressions and their meanings.
Practice using these expressions in sentences and understanding their figurative meanings.
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Assignment: Choose 10 idiomatic expressions from the video and write a sentence for each one, demonstrating your understanding of their meanings and usage. |
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Day 2 : Idiomatic expressions related to emotions and feelings
Learn idiomatic expressions related to emotions and feelings, such as "avoir le cafard" (to feel down), "ĂȘtre aux anges" (to be on cloud nine), and "avoir le cĆur gros" (to be heavy-hearted).
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Assignment: Write a short dialogue (10-12 lines) between two friends discussing their feelings using idiomatic expressions related to emotions. |
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Day 3: Idiomatic expressions related to everyday life situations
Learn idiomatic expressions related to everyday life situations, such as "mettre les points sur les i" (to dot the i's and cross the t's), "faire d'une pierre deux coups" (to kill two birds with one stone), and "ĂȘtre dans le mĂȘme bateau" (to be in the same boat).
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Assignment: Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) describing a challenging situation you faced and how you resolved it, using idiomatic expressions related to everyday life situations. |
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Day 4: Practicing idiomatic expressions in context
Practice using idiomatic expressions in several contexts: telling stories, giving advice, expressing opinions, and more.
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Assignment: Write a short story (150-200 words) about a character facing a dilemma, using at least 5 idiomatic expressions you learned this week. Use the expressions naturally and effectively to convey the character's thoughts and feelings. |
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Day 5: Expanding vocabulary related to travel and transportation
Learn new vocabulary related to travel and transportation, such as "un billet" (a ticket), "un vol" (a flight), "un quai" (a platform), and "un embouteillage" (a traffic jam).
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Assignment: Create a mind map or vocabulary list with at least 20 words related to travel and transportation. Write a short paragraph (6-8 sentences) describing a memorable travel experience using the new vocabulary. |
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Day 6: Expanding vocabulary related to work and professions
Learn new vocabulary related to work and professions, such as "un stage" (an internship), "un entretien d'embauche" (a job interview), "un congé" (a leave), and "un cadre" (an executive).
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Assignment: Create a mind map or vocabulary list with at least 20 words related to work and professions. Write a short job application letter (120-150 words) using the new vocabulary to describe your qualifications and experience. |
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Day 7: Expanding vocabulary related to emotions and personal characteristics
Learn new vocabulary related to emotions and personal characteristics, such as "Ă©panoui(e)" (fulfilled), "compatissant(e)" (compassionate), "fiable" (reliable), and "malicieux(se)" (mischievous).
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Assignment: Create a mind map or vocabulary list with at least 20 words related to emotions and personal characteristics. Write a short character description (100-120 words) of a fictional or real person using the new vocabulary to convey their personality and emotions. |
Assessment 5: Evaluate progress through a mock B1 exam and assignments
At the end of the fifth month, you need to assess your progress and determine whether you have reached a solid B1 level in French. This assessment will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and prepare you for the final stage of your French learning journey.
Mock B1 Exam
Take a mock B1 exam that covers all the topics and skills you've learned during the past five months. The exam should include the following sections:
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Listening comprehension
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Reading comprehension
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Writing
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Speaking
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Grammar and vocabulary
You can find mock B1 exams online or in French learning textbooks. Some recommended resources for B1 exams include:
Assignments
In addition to the mock exam, complete the following assignments to demonstrate your B1-level French skills:
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Write a 300-word essay expressing your opinion on a current social issue, such as environmental protection, gender equality, or the impact of technology on society. Keep your grammatical structures in mind and use idiomatic expressions and vocabulary to support your arguments.
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Record a 6-minute video of yourself presenting a topic of your choice. It could be a book review, a travel guide, or a how-to tutorial. Use the right vocabulary, grammatical structures, and transitions to make your presentation clear, coherent, and engaging.
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Read a B1-level French news article or blog post (400-500 words) and write a summary and critical analysis in French (200-250 words). Identify the main points, evaluate the author's arguments, and provide your own perspective on the topic.
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Listen to a B1-level French podcast or interview (5-7 minutes) about a cultural or historical topic and answer comprehension questions about the main ideas, specific details, and speakers' perspectives. Write a reflection (150-200 words) on the topic, discussing what you learned and how it relates to your own experiences or knowledge.
Ămilie, 42 ans, est une scientifique passionnĂ©e qui travaille pour un grand laboratoire de recherche Ă Toulouse. SpĂ©cialisĂ©e en biologie molĂ©culaire, elle mĂšne des recherches sur les maladies gĂ©nĂ©tiques rares dans l'espoir de dĂ©velopper de nouveaux traitements.
Le chemin d'Ămilie vers la recherche scientifique n'a pas Ă©tĂ© direct. AprĂšs avoir obtenu son baccalaurĂ©at, elle a hĂ©sitĂ© entre plusieurs domaines d'Ă©tudes. C'est lors d'un stage dans un laboratoire pendant ses Ă©tudes de licence qu'elle a dĂ©couvert sa vocation pour la recherche. Elle a ensuite poursuivi ses Ă©tudes jusqu'au doctorat, tout en travaillant comme assistante de recherche pour financer sa formation.
Dans son travail actuel, Ămilie dirige une Ă©quipe de jeunes chercheurs. Elle est reconnue pour sa rigueur scientifique et sa capacitĂ© Ă encourager la crĂ©ativitĂ© et l'innovation au sein de son Ă©quipe. Cependant, elle doit faire face Ă des dĂ©fis tels que la recherche de financements et la gestion des dĂ©lais serrĂ©s pour publier des rĂ©sultats.
MalgrĂ© son emploi du temps chargĂ©, Ămilie s'efforce de maintenir un Ă©quilibre entre sa vie professionnelle et personnelle. Elle est mariĂ©e et a deux adolescents qui sont sa plus grande fiertĂ©. Pour dĂ©compresser, elle pratique la mĂ©ditation et le jardinage. Elle est Ă©galement engagĂ©e dans des associations qui cherchent Ă promouvoir les sciences auprĂšs des jeunes, en particulier des filles.
Ămilie est convaincue que la recherche scientifique a le pouvoir de changer des vies. Son rĂȘve est de contribuer Ă une dĂ©couverte majeure qui pourrait amĂ©liorer le traitement des maladies gĂ©nĂ©tiques rares. Elle espĂšre Ă©galement inspirer la prochaine gĂ©nĂ©ration de scientifiques Ă poursuivre leurs passions et Ă repousser les limites de la connaissance.
Questions de compréhension :
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Quel est le domaine d'expertise d'Ămilie et sur quoi portent ses recherches ?
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Pourquoi Ămilie a-t-elle choisi de travailler dans la recherche scientifique ?
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Comment Ămilie a-t-elle financĂ© ses Ă©tudes de doctorat ?
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Quelles sont les qualitĂ©s d'Ămilie en tant que directrice d'Ă©quipe ?
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Quels sont les principaux dĂ©fis auxquels Ămilie est confrontĂ©e dans son travail ?
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Comment Ămilie concilie-t-elle sa vie professionnelle et sa vie personnelle ?
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Quels sont les loisirs d'Ămilie pour se dĂ©tendre ?
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Dans quelles activitĂ©s associatives Ămilie s'engage-t-elle et pourquoi ?
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Quel est le rĂȘve professionnel d'Ămilie ?
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Que souhaite-t-elle inspirer chez la prochaine génération de scientifiques ?
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Analysez le parcours d'Ămilie. Quels ont Ă©tĂ© les moments clĂ©s qui ont façonnĂ© sa carriĂšre ?
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Discutez de l'importance de la rigueur scientifique et de l'innovation dans le domaine de la recherche.
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Selon vous, pourquoi est-il crucial de promouvoir les sciences auprĂšs des jeunes, en particulier des filles ?
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Comment la recherche scientifique peut-elle contribuer à améliorer la vie des personnes atteintes de maladies rares ?
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Que peut-on apprendre du parcours d'Ămilie en termes de persĂ©vĂ©rance et de poursuite de ses passions ?
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Participate in a 15-minute conversation or role-play with a French native speaker or tutor, discussing a range of topics such as your hobbies, future plans, and experiences with French culture.Â
Demonstrate your ability to express yourself spontaneously, use appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures, and adapt to your interlocutor's responses.
Evaluation and Reflection
After completing the mock exam and assignments, evaluate your performance and reflect on your progress. Consider the following questions:
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Did you achieve a solid B1 level in French based on your exam results and assignment performance?
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Which areas have you excelled in, and which areas still require improvement?
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How has your French language proficiency evolved since the beginning of your learning journey?
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What learning strategies and resources have been most effective for you during the past five months?
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What are your goals and priorities for the final stage of your French learning journey?
Use your evaluation and reflection to celebrate your achievements, set new goals, and adjust your learning plan for the final month. If you feel that you need more practice in certain areas, dedicate additional time and resources to addressing those weaknesses.
Remember that reaching a B1 level in French is a significant milestone, and you should be proud of your progress. Continue to stay motivated, engage with authentic French materials, and seek opportunities to use your language skills in real-life situations.Â
Month 6: Solidifying your French B1 level skills
Here you focus is to learn speech patterns, argumentation, logic, and connecting ideas.
Week 21: Present subjunctive mood
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Day 1: Understanding the subjunctive mood and its usage
Watch "Le subjonctif présent en français : formation et emploi" by Parlez-vous FRENCH : Learn French Online to learn about the subjunctive mood, its formation, and when to use it in French.
Next, practice identifying situations that require the subjunctive mood, such as expressing emotions, doubts, or necessities.
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Assignment: Write 10 sentences using the subjunctive mood to express various emotions, doubts, or necessities. Use the right trigger phrases and verb forms. |
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Day 2: Subjunctive conjugations for regular verbs
Learn the subjunctive conjugations for regular verbs in French, including -er, -ir, and -re verbs.
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Assignment: Choose 10 regular verbs (a mix of -er, -ir, and -re verbs) and conjugate them in the present subjunctive for all subject pronouns (je, tu, il/elle/on, nous, vous, ils/elles). |
Write 5 sentences using these conjugated verbs in the subjunctive mood.
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Day 3: Subjunctive conjugations for common irregular verbs
Learn the subjunctive conjugations for common irregular verbs, such as ĂȘtre, avoir, aller, faire, pouvoir, and vouloir.
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Assignment: Write 10 sentences using the subjunctive mood with common irregular verbs. Focus on using the correct trigger phrases and verb forms. |
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Day 4: Subjunctive conjugations for stem-changing and irregular verbs
Learn the subjunctive conjugations for stem-changing verbs (e.g., prendre, venir) and other irregular verbs (e.g., savoir, voir).
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Assignment: Choose 5 stem-changing verbs and 5 irregular verbs and conjugate them in the present subjunctive for all subject pronouns (je, tu, il/elle/on, nous, vous, ils/elles). Write 5 sentences using these conjugated verbs in the subjunctive mood. |
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Day 5: Subjunctive mood in various sentence structures
Practice using the subjunctive mood in different sentence structures, such as subordinate clauses introduced by âqueâ, relative clauses, and impersonal expressions (e.g., il faut que, il est important que).
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Assignment: Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) expressing your thoughts on a controversial topic, using the subjunctive mood in several sentence structures to convey your emotions, doubts, and opinions. |
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Day 6: Subjunctive mood in complex sentences
Learn how to use the subjunctive mood in complex sentences with multiple clauses and different trigger phrases.
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Assignment: Write 5 complex sentences using the subjunctive mood in multiple clauses. Use the right trigger phrases and verb forms, and ensure your sentences are grammatically correct and convey the intended meaning. |
Day 7: Review and consolidation
Review the formation and usage of the present subjunctive mood, its role in expressing emotions, doubts, and necessities in different contexts.
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Assignment: Write a short essay (200-250 words) about a personal experience or a current event that evokes strong emotions or opinions. Use the subjunctive mood to express your feelings, doubts, and beliefs, and employ a variety of sentence structures and verb forms. Share your essay with your study partner or language exchange group for feedback. |
Week 22: Emphatic pronouns and double object pronouns
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Day 1 : Introduction to emphatic pronouns
Watch "Les pronoms toniques en français" by Français avec Pierre to learn about emphatic pronouns (moi, toi, lui, elle, nous, vous, eux, elles) and their role in adding emphasis or contrast to a sentence.
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Assignment: Write 10 sentences using emphatic pronouns to emphasize the subject or object of the sentence. Be sure to use the right pronoun and placement within the sentence. |
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Day 2: Emphatic pronouns with prepositions
Learn how to use emphatic pronouns with prepositions like "pour moi" (for me), "sans toi" (without you), and "chez lui" (at his place).
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Assignment: Write 10 sentences using emphatic pronouns with prepositions to express various relationships or circumstances. Use the right pronoun and preposition combination. |
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Day 3: Emphatic pronouns in complex sentences
Practice using emphatic pronouns in complex sentences like those with multiple clauses or subordinate clauses.
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Assignment: Write a short paragraph (8-10 sentences) about a situation where you are comparing or contrasting yourself with others, using emphatic pronouns to add emphasis and clarity to your statements. |
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Day 4: Introduction to double object pronouns
Watch "Les pronoms compléments d'objet direct et indirect en français" by Parlez-vous FRENCH : Learn French Online to learn about double object pronouns (e.g., me le, te la, nous les) and their role in replacing both direct and indirect objects in a sentence.
Next, practice using double object pronouns in simple sentences with verbs that commonly take both direct and indirect objects like âdonnerâ (to give), âenvoyerâ (to send), and âmontrerâ (to show).
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Assignment: Write 10 sentences using double object pronouns to replace both direct and indirect objects. Use the right pronoun combination and placement within the sentence. |
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Day 5: Placement of double object pronouns
Learn the rules for placing double object pronouns in different sentence structures like affirmative, negative, and imperative sentences.
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Assignment: Write 10 sentences using double object pronouns in different sentence structures (affirmative, negative, and imperative). |
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Day 6: Double object pronouns in complex sentences
Practice using double object pronouns in complex sentences, as those with multiple verbs or subordinate clauses.
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Assignment: Write a short dialogue (10-12 lines) between two people discussing a situation where they are giving, sending, or showing something to each other, using double object pronouns to replace the direct and indirect objects. |
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Day 7 : Using emphatic pronouns with double object pronouns
Learn how to use emphatic pronouns in combination with double object pronouns to add emphasis or contrast to a sentence.
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Write a short essay (200-250 words) about a personal experience where you helped someone or received help from someone. Use emphatic pronouns and double object pronouns to add emphasis and replace objects in your sentences. Share your essay with your study partner or language exchange group for feedback. |
Week 23: Reading and writing skills
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Day 1: Strategies for reading authentic texts
Learn strategies for improving reading comprehension when dealing with authentic French texts. Learn how to identify main ideas, how to skim and scan, and how to use context clues to deduce the meaning of unfamiliar words.
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Choose an authentic French article or short story (500-700 words) and apply the reading strategies you learned to identify the main ideas, key details, and unfamiliar vocabulary. Write a brief summary (100-150 words) of the text in French. |
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Day 2: Reading and analyzing different text types
Practice reading and analyzing different types of French texts. Consider news articles, opinion pieces, and literary excerpts. While youâre at it, focus on their structure, purpose, and style.
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Read two different types of authentic French texts (e.g., a news article and an opinion piece) on the same topic. Write a comparative analysis (200-250 words) in French, discussing the similarities and differences in their structure, purpose, and style. |
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Day 3: Reading comprehension practice
Continue practicing reading comprehension with French texts of varying lengths and difficulty levels.
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Read an authentic French text (800-1000 words) on a topic of your interest. Write a detailed summary (200-250 words) of the text in French, including the main ideas, key details, and your personal thoughts on the topic. |
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Day 4: Strategies for organizing ideas and structuring arguments
Learn strategies for organizing ideas and structuring arguments in French writing. Learn to create outlines, use transitional phrases, and develop coherent paragraphs.
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Choose a controversial topic and create a detailed outline for a persuasive essay in French. Include an introduction, three main arguments with supporting details, and a conclusion. |
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Day 5: Writing essays and compositions
Practice writing essays and compositions in French on various topics. Apply the strategies for organizing ideas and structuring arguments you learned earlier.
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Write a persuasive essay (300-400 words) in French based on the outline you created on Day 4. Use transitional phrases, develop coherent paragraphs, and present your arguments effectively. |
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Day 6: Editing and revising written work
Learn strategies for editing and revising written work in French. For example, learn to check for grammatical accuracy, improve word choice and sentence structure, and ensure clarity and coherence.
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Assignment: Exchange your persuasive essay from Day 5 with a study partner or language exchange group member. Edit and revise each other's work, providing feedback on grammar, vocabulary, structure, and clarity. Incorporate the feedback you receive and rewrite your essay as needed. |
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Day 7: Responding to authentic texts through writing
Practice integrating reading and writing skills by reading authentic French texts and responding to them through written compositions.
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Read an authentic French text (1000-1200 words) on a current social, political, or cultural issue. Write a response essay (400-500 words) in French, expressing your thoughts on the issue and engaging with the ideas presented in the text. Use the strategies you learned for organizing ideas, structuring arguments, and editing your work. |
Week 24: Grand Slam Practice
The goal this week is to put all the skills you've developed into practice and create an impressive portfolio of writing samples and recordings in French. Challenge yourself, but also take pride in how far you've come. Bon courage!
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Day 1: Write an essay on "The role of technology in modern education"
Brainstorm ideas and create an outline for your essay, then write a 5-paragraph essay (introduction, 3 body paragraphs, conclusion).Â
Make clear thesis statements, supporting evidence, and smooth transitions between paragraphs and aim for 500-600 words.
Lastly, edit and proofread your essay for grammar, spelling, and coherence.
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Day 2: Record yourself presenting an argumentative speech on "Is social media more beneficial or harmful to society?"
Research the topic and gather evidence to support your stance, then outline your main arguments and counterarguments.Â
Go ahead and write a compelling 3-4 minute speech with an engaging intro, clear main points, and powerful conclusion.
When done, practice delivering your speech focusing on pacing, emphasis, and body language and record yourself presenting the speech and critically analyze your performance.
Aim to sound confident, articulate, and persuasive.
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Day 3: Write an opinion piece on "How can individuals combat climate change in their daily lives?"
Reflect on the issue and generate specific, actionable ideas and write a 400-500 word opinion piece with an attention-grabbing opening, personal anecdotes, and clear call-to-action.
Maintain an authentic, conversational tone while still sounding authoritative, then review and revise your piece for clarity, style, and impact.
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Day 4: Record yourself giving an informative talk on "The importance of mental health awareness"
Conduct research to find relevant statistics, expert quotes, and helpful resources and structure a 4-5 minute talk with an impactful intro, 3 main informative points, and memorable conclusion.
Then incorporate an engaging hook, stories/examples, and audience interaction if appropriate.Â
Practice your delivery aiming for a conversational, empathetic, yet educational tone and film yourself giving the talk and review the recording to identify areas for refinement.
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Day 5: Write a persuasive letter on an issue you feel passionate about
Select a relevant issue and clearly define your stance and call-to-action and craft a persuasive 1-2 page letter with a professional tone addressed to an entity that can effect change (local rep, newspaper editor, company, etc).Â
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Use ethos, pathos and logos to make your case â establish credibility, evoke emotion, and provide logical arguments.
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Close with a powerful restatement of your position and specific request for action.
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Polish the letter ensuring it is concise, customized to the recipient, and free of errors.
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Day 6: Outline, draft and polish your capstone writing piece
Review your writing portfolio and select a meaningful topic for a capstone essay, article or story and develop a thorough outline expanding on your chosen idea.
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Write a rough draft (length depending on the format you chose).
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Set it aside and return later to revise, edit and proofread.Â
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Focus on showcasing your unique writing voice, creativity, and mastery of your chosen style
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Day 7: Record your capstone french presentationÂ
Decide on a topic that encapsulates your French learning journey and future language goals and outline a 5-7 minute presentation sharing your progress, challenges overcome, proud achievements, and aspirations.
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Draft a compelling script weaving in impactful anecdotes and reflections.
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Rehearse your presentation multiple times concentrating on pronunciation, fluidity and conveying emotions.
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Record and review your presentation, make adjustments as needed.
When satisfied, share the recording with your mentor and online French learning community for feedback and encouragement.
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