Think Twice Before Asking People To Correct Your French

23 Aug 2010
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Think Twice Before Asking People To Correct Your French

I know this might sound like a strange piece of advise, but I've been there... So you have some French acquaintances, and you think it would be great to practice your French with them. Ok, sounds good.

Then you add "oh! and please, correct my mistakes."

Bad idea. Why ? Because this might destroy any self confidence you have in French. Specially if you are a beginner or intermediate.

Learning a language is tough. It takes time. You cannot be perfect right away. And it's likely that you'll make mistakes. Many mistakes. If the basic ones should be corrected, it's a rare skill to know which mistake is bad, and which one can fly. And most people are very bad at making this distinction.

Furthermore, your acquaintances are your friends. You want to relax with them, not be in "classroom mode". It might put you both in an uncomfortable place: you being constantly reminded of your mistakes, and feeling stupid, and them being embarrassed because they can't explain why it is a mistake... Because, unless they are teachers, they won't be able to explain most of the mistakes you make. And this is frustrating for both parties.

Believe me, if you want to practice your French with friends, OK, but they don't need the hassle of correcting you, nor do you need the constant embarrassment.

And if you want someone to correct you in a constructive way, then take phone lessons with me :-)



Camille Chevalier-Karfis

Born and raised in Paris, I have been teaching today's French to adults for 19 years in the US, France, and to people around the world over the phone and by Skype . My method is proven and unique, and, based on my students' goals and needs, I've developed  high quality audiobooks and audio lessons for all levels.
Good luck with your studies and remember, repetition is the key!

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