My Story Learning French
I started learning French in the second year of high school and continued with it through until my undergraduate degree (BA English with French). In the years since, I have always tried to keep up my skills in the language despite not actively studying it anymore. I still feel confident reading in French and can write well enough for penning letters to my two pen pals in France. My listening comprehension, too, remains extremely good, but I fear my speaking skills are lacking these days. I can't even recall when I last spoke French (more than a few words or just singing along to musical theatre songs), so I imagine I'd be rusty if thrust suddenly into a conversation!
These days, the bulk of my French exposure is from letters between me and my pen pals and listening to some of the podcasts listed below. The former is ad hoc, as and when I receive letters, but I listen to something in French podcast-wise at least once a week. Now and then I will read a bit in French, too, when I have the time and inclination. I still have a number of fiction books in French on my bookshelves.
I spoke more about my journey learning French in this video.
Resources
The following resources are ones I've found useful.Please note that I am not receiving any incentive to recommend any of these resources. Nor can I say they will suit every learner, as everyone's learning style is different. I am sharing only my personal experiences with these assets and cannot guarantee they will benefit everyone.
Books
Reprise - This is the textbook I used at university. I've not looked at it properly for years, but at the time I found it a good text for reviewing key grammar. There may be newer editions out there these days.
French Verb Tables - My quick go-to book if I need to double-check a verb conjugation when writing.
Modern French Grammar - This series from Routledge are always reliable and comprehensive texts on grammar.
YouTube
Français Authentique - The content on Johan's YouTube channel is generally less advanced than that of his podcast (mentioned below). His videos look at French vocabulary and grammar and would be suitable for anyone high beginner and above.
Learn French with Alexa - A channel with great content for both beginners and more advanced learners, and Alexa's presentations are always good fun. Presented in a mix of French and English.
PLANÈTE FRANÇAIS TV avec Elsa Kenza - A range of lessons available in vocabulary, grammar etc. for learners from beginner to advanced.
Podcasts
Fluidité - A fun podcast that often focuses on French culture. I listen to the podcast on Google Podcast, but they are also uploaded as videos on YouTube. Probably best for low-intermediate learners and above.
Français Authentique - A podcast that covers both general discussion on personal improvement and the study of different French idioms. Best for intermediate and above.
Inner French - A podcast that covers a variety of interesting topics. Probably best for intermediate and above.
Émotions - For more advanced learners, this podcast, as the title suggests, covers more psychologically themed topics.
Websites
The following websites all present media (video and audio) in French for more advanced learners:
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