Hello, I have a few weeks before I start a class that requires students to understand speeches given by French-speaking presidents and world leaders. I’ll also have to be able to follow the presidential debates in French, French news, interviews, etc.
However, my French comprehension is at about 60 - 75% at the moment.
Currently, I have a tutor who records 30-minute monologues on subjects that I AM INTERSTED IN, so the input is interesting and compelling. He speaks at native-level speed, and the expressions and sentences are not made any easier just because I’m a student. I listen to these recordings intensively, meaning I’ll listen once through, and then I’ll repeatedly listen to the tough spots until I get it. I also listen to French podcasts from France Culture and EuroNews in French.
But, today, I went to the Elysee’s website to watch “Le Point Presse,” which is similar to the “Press Briefings” held at the White House, and I had trouble following along. I also had trouble following along with some of the speeches given by François Hollande.
The positive thing is at least I understood about 80% - but that’s not enough. I need to be able to clearly understand the points these speakers are making.
So, am I doing enough? In addition to my 2 private French lessons a week, my tutor gives me those 30-minute recordings I mentioned above (they’re chocked full of highly-authentic French.). Also, I am reading like the wind; reading everything I can get my hands on: L’Express, Le Monde (this one is tough), Le Nouvel Observateur, Le Monde Diplomatique, Euro News, etc.
Am I fighting a losing battle? I don’t know how much improvement I can expect over the next 2 months … But in order to pass this class, I need to clearly understand this highly educated and formal level of French.
I feel like I am soooo close. I’ll listen to a few minutes, and sure just when the speaker goes to make his point, I’ll lose the thread.
Let me know what you think.