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French-language Tim Hortons sign, Montreal
January 25th, 2010French Language Academy
January 22nd, 2010
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The French Language ? a Languages of the World Primer
January 18th, 2010History and development
French is one of the many so-called Romance languages that grew out of “Vulgar Latin”. It is part of the linguistic subgroup known as Langue d’oil that developed in northern France in the middle ages. It differs from the other two main subgroups spoken in France, Langue d’oc (also known as Occitan) and Franco-Provencal spoken in southern France, in that it was heavily influenced by the Germanic languages brought in by the invading Franks.
In practical terms what we now know as modern French began to come to the fore following the 1539 Villers-Cotterêts Ordinance in which King Francis I made Parisian French the official State language. Whilst the expressly declared goal was to displace Latin, the knock-on effect on other regional French languages cannot have gone unnoticed. To this day, it is official French state policy to promote French to the detriment of the other regional languages. The proof of this is that despite the fact that France is a signatory to the European Charter for Regional Languages it cannot ratify it because to do so would contravene the current French constitution.
The decree was followed by the publication of the first French Grammar in 1550 as major efforts were made to unify and purify the language. In 1634, this process was institutionalised with the founding of the Académie française (French Academy) by Cardinal Richelieu. As French power rose during the 17th and 18th centuries so did the reach of the French language, becoming the lingua franca across most of Europe, before being exported worldwide as France and Belgium became colonial powers.
Related languages
French is most closely related to the other Romance languages in the Langue d’oil subgroup (the bulk of northern France and Belgium). To refer to such languages (for example Picard and Walloon) as dialects of French is to profoundly misunderstand the shared roots and the process by which all of these languages developed side by side over time. French is also closely related to the other Romance languages spoken in France. Partly because of its part Germanic roots, mutual intelligibility between French and the Romance languages spoken outside France is, however, much lower than say between Italian and Spanish despite their greater geographic distance.
Current status
French is an official language of the United Nations, the European Union and a wide range of other international bodies. In addition to being an official language in close to 30 countries, La Francophonie (the primary international organisation of French-speaking countries) has over fifty members, showing the continued global influence of the French language despite the decline in French Power since the second World War. Members come from all corners of the globe.
Despite its European origins, the bulk of French speakers now live in Africa. A 2007 report published by La Francophonie estimated that some 115 million Africans spoke French as either their first or second language. Statistics as to the actual number of native speakers are impossible to verify, with estimates ranging from 70 million to over 100 million. How many non-native speakers there are is anybody’s guess, but what is certain is that French is still a leading international language.
The only cloud on the horizon, from a purist’s perspective, is the growing influence of English both as a usurper of French’s traditional role as a lingua Franca and through its “contamination” of the perceived purity of the French language. It has, however, been argued that this view is slightly myopic and ignores the influence that French has had on English. French-speakers are now borrowing from English in the same way as English speakers borrowed from French in the past. In fact, estimates of the number of words of French origin in the English language range from between one third and two thirds depending on who you believe. Compared to this, French is estimated to have borrowed 3-4% of words from English, although admittedly most of these are recent borrowings and the trend can be expected to continue. It is however, a natural process and languages should not be viewed as stone edifices but rather as sea-like constructs that are constantly in motion.
The original version of this article can be found here: French Language Primer
Rocket French Language – Will it Actually Work?
January 15th, 2010Rocket French is an on-line French learning system. Does it actually work?WHAT DOES THE SYSTEM LOOK LIKE?Rocket French comes as a CD set or a downloadable package. It comes with videos, audio, and software games. In addition, you get access to a Learning Lounge where you can test your progress, and communicate with other users and teachers. The basic approach is to teach French by Visual Association. You learned your mother tongue by visual association. You SAW something and HEARD the word for it at the same time. In this way you easily and quickly learned the meanings of words. Rocket French aims to duplicate the process with the use of software, audio, and video. DOES IT REALLY WORK?Rocket French is powerful, IF you can commit to working with the system regularly. Ideally, you should aim to work with the lessons for some time each day (30min to 1hr at least). The individual lessons are engineered to build on each other. Therefore, being consistent is very important. Learning a language is much like learning to ride a bike. For the first week or so you might think that you aren’t getting anywhere. If you keep going, however, you will hit a point when things suddenly “fall into place”. You will find yourself making sentences without effort and picking up most of the words in the audio recordings. Then you can proceed to learning more advanced vocabulary and grammar. IS ROCKET FRENCH A GOOD FIT FOR EVERYONE?Some students find it difficult to focus unless there is some outside pressure such as an upcoming “exam” or an instructor checking their “homework”. Rocket French is a do it yourself system. It is powerful but you must provide the follow-through yourselfIf you think you might need the pressure of a class situation in order to follow through, look into a class at a local college. Remember, however, that classroom instruction will cost much more and can take longer. If you are serious about wanting to learn the French language and are ready to put aside a little time each day, Rocket French can get you speaking French in a couple of months. Get instant access to the Rocket French program at =>Rocket French Lessons
RocketFrench-Why You Should Learn The French Language
January 12th, 2010By Davis GarzaDid you ever instantly know that you’d be totally fascinated by something you were reading? I mean, maybe as you continued to read it, and notice the shape of the letters, the darkness of the ink, and the whiteness of the page, it allowed you to GO INSIDE, and remember a time when learning was easy and fun? There is an endless list of things that France is famous for history, art, music and fashion are some of them. If a person were to learn French , even basic French, they would benefit from the influence France has throughout the world. Even if it is only at a beginners level, it allows that person to benefit from a complete understanding of the culture and effect on their life. Just in America there are more than 8000 companies that have business connections with France . So many American companies have an office in France and so many French companies have an office in America. Therefore it seems logical to many people who work for these companies, knowing how to speak French and understanding the French language would be beneficial not only to the company but also your career. Apart from learning to speak French to help your career, learning French can also assist you when you holiday in France. Having even a basic level of this language when travelling to one of the favourite European tourist destinations will mean you will get so much more from the experience. Having even a simple knowledge of French will give your far more value for money on your trip. French food is often considered one of the best and healthiest foods in the world. I don’t know what you say to yourself when you decide that you would like to learn French so as to learn about its influences in food. On top of that you will be able to understand the menu’s. Which is a good thing!. When you discover that half of Europe’s UNESCO protected sights and monuments are in France you’ll figure that learning French will be a good thing. How good would it feel if you were able to fully appreciate Dante’s Divine Comedy poem as he intended, because you could speak the language in which it was originally written?. I find that when I experience the feeling of being able to travel around France and step into the new experience of speaking French it’s like that voice deep inside your mind whispers to you that you have to experience it to. As you step through the doorway of your mind it’s as if this is an experience you want to have to. There is no higher compliment to pay someone than to attempt to address them in their own language and you will get far more assistance from the local people if you can do this. Most people have an either or in their head. Either they experience life or they don’ t. You can have both by reprogramming the way you think. Learning French even basic French will make your life very rewarding. How does it feel to work your tail off and not get the rewards you think you deserve? Do you feel robbed? You need to get French language software and you need to get the “RocketFrench” French course. “RocketFrench” has recently started to offer multiple language courses using multimedia, which have been thoughtfully compiled and are proving very popular judging by the pace this company is expanding. You will be immediately and favourably affected by the advanced use of technology used in their French courses. The learning software from “RocketFrench” reviews as follows. In order to learn French, “RocketFrench” makes use of a mixture of sophisticated techniques including sound, image, vision and moving pictures. By structuring the course in this way the student is kept deeply involved in the learning process while having fun at the same time. Boredom is not a word that comes to mind when taking “RocketFrench” language course. About 20 years ago multimedia was the realm of science fiction. The format today is excellent for young adults and kids. This has proved to be the best way to hold their focus and keep their attention during the learning process. The individual modules in this French program are not complicated to use so older people can use “Learning French Like Crazy” as well. This is the best option for a wide range of ages. Oral aptitude is what the “RocketFrench” French language focuses on. I’m sure you can remember the old days where you had to learn the spelling and grammar at the same time. ” RocketFrench” took into account the number of people who will actually want or need to read or write a language when taking this approach. Using this focus the student gets to speak the language more quickly and is more likely to complete the course. As soon as the student feels able they can include the writing and reading exercises. They have certainly thought it through because this is the way we learn our mother tongue. Sonia Gil is a special performer in the videos. An American, Sonia travelled to France to do her language courses in French. As she was also once a scholar of French as a foreign language, this places her in a strong position to be able to present tutorage to students who are learning from the same perspective she did. This gives her a unique view point as a teacher and allows her to use foundations of English language to build upon that a non native English speaker would not be able to. The courses are engaging and easy to follow because Sonia is an energetic teacher. With 30 three-hour sessions there is plenty of material for you to work through. But since you have the software, you can complete the course at any pace that you like. This gives complete flexibility to all ages and life styles. The “RocketFrench” French learning software has a completeness that I have not come across before. There is a quality combination of visual appeal and quality instruction. Students very quickly learn to speak the language in an enjoyable training approach. This course comes with a high recommendation.
How To Learn French Language That Fits Your Schedule
January 8th, 2010For those who wish to learn French language but think they cannot because of their busy schedules, there are actually plenty of options.
In many countries, lots of institutions offer classes. However, not everyone has the opportunity to take these time-extensive courses that are spread over several years for in-depth learning. With the fast and busy pace of these modern times, lots of people need quicker and more convenient methods. Fortunately, there are learning techniques that can be squeezed into a tight schedule and yet still be effective.
To learn French language efficiently, consider your needs and your current schedule, so that you can set realistic goals. As a starter, you can turn to the Internet, which provides you with plenty of programs. Many sites offer free material that are basic and introductory. This is a great way to learn numbers, letters, grammar, verb conjugations, and basic sentences such as greetings. If you are at least at intermediate level, you often have to pay a certain rate to get access to lessons with more substance and features.
Considering your needs helps save you time and energy. For example, if you are more interested in becoming fluent with your speech than in improving your reading and writing skills, you do not need to include books or writing exercises in your studying.
Instead, go for audio-based lessons such as those that are offered through cassettes and CDs. These courses concentrate on proper pronunciation and make you apply your listening skills, which is similar to having an actual conversation with a native speaker.
When the aim is a quick learning of the language, choose methods that have a practical approach to teaching, such as words and phrases used in everyday conversations. That way, you focus on picking up essential words and phrases-only those that are pertinent to daily use, as opposed to memorizing dozens of vocabulary that you are unlikely to use often.
If you do want something in depth and have the time, learn French language from experts and not from amateurs. Do not risk picking up wrong sentence structures and inaccurate translations of words and phrases. It is important, therefore, to find and choose accredited programs and tutors who have the knowledge and the experience to show you the right way. Also, when you feel comfortable enough, you could try a language exchange with a native speaker to improve your pronunciation and vocabulary.
A source where you can learn French language is http://Pimsleur-language. com. The website provides 30-minute lessons on cassette or CD. The lessons last for one month, and include instruction from a teacher and pronunciation practice with a native speaker. Visit http://www. pimsleur-language. com to find out more about the courses they offer.
Go for French Language Summer Camps in France and Switzerland
January 5th, 2010In recent days summer camps are proving to be a great idea to let young people spend their holidays at. The innovative and well maintained summer camps are a great way for children to have fun, make new friends, learn new things, or simple relax after a hectic year in school – an enjoyable way to be on their own and experience the world around them.
Before deciding to send your kids on a camp do some research about the type of camp you or your child wishes to choose. Read testimonials, talk to people who have been part of those camps earlier, call the camp administration and ask questions, clear doubts and check well before enrolling your kid. A little bit of caution and alertness before choosing the camp will result in a relaxing and enjoyable experience for your kid and a tension free affair for you. Involve your kids in the decision making process as they should be aware of what they are getting into. Learn to see summer camps as a learning experience, an enjoyable way to spend some time to experience the world.
The summer camps provided by ESL language schools are an innovative approach towards summer camps with a difference. Till date we knew of study centers near our homes which provided courses in French language. But ESL school provides French language summer courses at scenic locales in France and French speaking Switzerland. These study centers are located in beautiful buildings with excellent security services. All the centers are internet enabled and equipped with telephones, mini banks, sports grounds, cafeterias, and special leisure activities are provide under staff supervision.
The students are provided residential accommodation within the campus with 24 hrs supervision for maximum support and safety. The centers are mostly located in areas surrounded by rivers, mountains or lakes, so you can enjoy nature’s bounty. All study centers also have restaurants, cafes and shopping zones situated nearby so that you have best of both the worlds near you.
All courses are customized according to the requirement of the students. French language is taught by expert trainers who are professionals in language teaching and take care of each and every student to make your stay a success. Summer camps are also accompanied by excellent leisure activities that make a great combination of work and play.
To get to the study center of your choice you can avail air services- all centers are situated close to international airports. ESL supports students by offering pick-up and drop facilities provide by ESL staff, from or to the centers.
If parents wish to take to the road and drive their kids to the study center, they will have an easy time as the ESL study leaflets have detailed maps of the roads leading to the center along with staff contact numbers, who will help if you need specific help or directions on the way.
The ESL study centers are also situated close to the nearby rail stations. The staff is ready to provide pick and drop facilities if you wish to avail them.
Learn French Downloads – Fast Learning With French Language Software
December 29th, 2009Traditional French language learning has generally been of the “listen and repeat” type, either in class or by way of the old tape systems that I’m sure some of you remember (I certainly do). Although more recently we’ve have CDs and DVDs we’re still presented with the same old methods on them. Now however, at last we have more advanced interactive French language software and in recent years French lessons you can download straight to your pc.
But are they any good or is it just technology for the sake of it?
Like everything else there’s some and some. If you search for free French language software you’re going to probably restrict yourself to a few MP3s you can download. No bad thing in itself as it’s always good to have something to listen too. Every little helps.
You might also find a few mpeg clips that you can view online and why not? If they’re free, what have you got to loose?
The problem is that sooner rather than later you run out of useful information. Not surprising really, most of these guys are trying to make a living so they’ll give you a free taster in the hope that you’ll buy the main French software product. Nothing wrong with that, that’s good business sense, but sadly for us it means we’ve got to put our hand in our pocket!
So do we get good value once we’ve done so? Well for a start there’s plenty of choice from kids ages upwards. There’s also a big price range, from around dollars to several hundreds, and from what I’ve seen so far, you get what you pay for.
At the bottom end you’re not getting much more than the free stuff. In the mid-range things get more interesting and at the top you have to say you’re getting pretty comprehensive French language tuition. Most of these are going to come on CD or DVD although there are a few learn French downloads now available that you just pay for and copy straight from the server to your computer. No waiting for the mail and in at least one case a considerable saving over competing products – around $100 instead of $250 or more.
But $100 is not cheap. You can get quite a few books or basic old-fashioned CDs for that money. What makes this course so superior?
Well really we can forget about books straight away. If you’re an advanced French learner then there are books for verb conjugation and grammar that will prove useful but for the beginner you need to actually hear the language, to hear a French person speaking. You just can’t get that from a book.
What about audio CDs though, you might ask, you can hear people speaking on them. Well yes, but it really is just the listed-and-repeat style learning that most people soon find quite tedious.
Modern French language software downloads really involve the student. You have the audio tracks that you always have had (and which you can still copy to a CD or MP3 player) but now you also have illustrated interactive lessons and vocabulary and word games. The software is constantly challenging you and responding to your answers. As a result you feel involved and your rate of learning accelerates dramatically.
We can’t really criticize the old tape systems. Back then, that’s all there was. To translate them to CDs was really a bit of a cop-out. Fortunately some companies have taken advantage of the technology to provide truly immersive learn French downloads that vastly increase our ability to absorb whilst greatly reducing the time it takes us.
Basic French Language – Learning Basic French Can be Fun and Fast
December 19th, 2009When you’re looking to get a good grip on the basic French language the last thing you want is to be bored. What you want is to get to learn a few things quickly. Initial success will encourage you and make you look forward to the next bit of French learning, and the next, and the next. Before you know it you’ve got a good grasp of the French language and the confidence to use it.
So what you’re probably asking now is just how fast can you learn. Of course that depends on you, and the time you can give it, but basic French language can be acquired very quickly if you’ve got the right material. There are interactive courses that boast that they can provide you with a reasonable degree of fluency in as little as eight weeks, and I have to say they’re quite right!
Modern PC based French learning systems are a long way from the dusty old text books of my youth! Systems provided on CD or by direct download give access to huge resources. A good basic French language course will also have the benefit of a native French speaker, not that dull old teacher we used to have who would probably have rather been doing something else!
You should be able to find entertaining games for learning French words or verbs, exactly the sort of thing that makes language learning fun and if it’s fun, it’s almost always fast too. It’s pretty unlikely you’re going to get bored when you’re tested by something that reacts to you, prompts you and stretches you just a little and modern French learning can be just like that.
In addition to PC based French lessons you should also find that the best software allows you to download French audio to MP3 or CD so you’ve got lessons you can carry around with you wherever you go. With all these attributes is it any wonder you can get a grip on the basic French language so quickly?
Of course you might expect there’s a price to pay for this sort of excellent in-depth teaching. In truth there are packages to suit every pocket from just a few dollars for the very basic to the eight week course offering a money-back guarantee for under $100. That’s a truly remarkable price considering the content available.
I know some people might be put off by the thought of learning basic French language via a computer. Well don’t be. If you’re reading this article you’ve got all the skills necessary. I’m “pushing fifty” (as my dear wife reminds me) and in no way a computer expert, so if I can manage, so can you!
Le Petit Prince
December 16th, 2009
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