| Life In France Needs Language Skills |
| Written by Hazel Wig |
| Sunday, 15 November 2009 09:32 |
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It seems common today for many British people to consider going to live abroad. And France, the Number One tourist destination, is an extremely popular country for those leaving Britain. Even in these times of continuing "financial crisis", many U.K. citizens are still considering living in France.
It seems common today for many British people to consider going to live abroad. And France, the Number One tourist destination, is an extremely popular country for those leaving Britain. Even in these times of continuing "financial crisis", many U.K. citizens are still considering living in France. Only 21 miles across the channel from us at its narrowest point, France has always held the promise of something foreign with its language and the old Parisian reputation for artists and lovers. Yet our long entangled histories means that there's a long aspect of familiarity to this country. And the language? Well, of course there's been a tradition of learning French in British schools. While this has produced some real lovers of the French language, many British people still almost boast of a national weakness in foreign language learning. I've met visitors who think I should be fluent in correct French because I've been living in France for many years. How I wish that did happen by osmosis. Of course it doesn't and quite a lot of deliberate effort is required. There are French people who don't understand the process either and who may regard us as a bit dim all round because we struggle to learn French. It's daunting to come to live in a foreign country where your knowledge of the language is very limited, but a positive attitude will work wonders. Most French citizens are genuinely pleased to encounter British who are trying to learn their language so that they can live successfully in France. They don't mind mistakes, and indeed will probably be pleased to help with them, but do respond to good intentions and efforts. Good intentions (and hard work) will give you every chance of learning to communicate and enjoy living in France. It's difficult to let go of inhibitions and to try really using French, but it is an important factor in improving your skills. So think about this when planning your language work. French people will be happy to help English speakers who make efforts (via gestures, sketches and other creative methods) and will usually aid them to improve their vocabulary with appropriate words and phrases. Not all of us are naturally so self-confident and it might be necessary to really push yourself in just one situation. See how it goes and what you might do next time. Pick a situation which is vital to you personally, for instance a visit to the vet to discuss your dog's health. Think about how you'll describe the dog's condition and even write a little script. This allows you to look up any vocabulary you don't know. Include questions you need to ask. It's often best to start by explaining you're learning French and to ask for the vet to be patient with you and to speak slowly. Since the French are only human, there will be times when the response is less than friendly. Just remind yourself that it's their problem, not yours. You're the one making great effort which is to your credit, so carry on to the next situation where you'll hopefully get your just reward. With your good intentions and willingness to work, what tools are available to help you improve your French? There are a growing variety of methods; there are numerous tapes and CDs available with written support; there are some good free on-line courses, e.g. the BBC, Radio France Internationale; there are distance learning courses that you pay for; there are telephone teachers who may also use e-mail; there are traditional books. Group and individual courses are frequently on offer in France for those wanting to learn the language. Don't forget to consider how you learn best when deciding on ways to make progress. Methods that suit your individual personality are likely to be more successful. In the end however, it's your interest and impetus that will ensure you learn and thus make the very most of living in France. About the Author: French Life and the benefits of Life in France have been featured in magazine articles the world over. To find out more of French Life take a look at Amanda Lawrence's new website at www.frenchvie.com. Lots of stories and recipes from the Quercy. It takes you right there - you'll never want to leave. Don't forget to register for her free newsletter. Author of White Stone Black Wine. |