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JohnMichael
07-14-2013, 08:13 PM
I am considering some language programs to become more conversational in French. I am looking at the Rosetta Stone, Pimsleur Approach and Fluenz. I am doing this both for future trips to Quebec City and Paris and a mental exercise. I do have neighbors who are fluent so I can practice speaking with them. My goal is not to be fluent but more conversational.

I first studied French in a rather progressive Catholic elementary school. My teacher knew then what we know now that children learn languages easier at a young age. When I studied French in high school my teacher was surprised what I already knew. I want to be more conversational but my brain also needs the exercise.

If you have used any of the systems available please let me know.

Feanor
07-15-2013, 03:58 AM
I am considering some language programs to become more conversational in French. I am looking at the Rosetta Stone, Pimsleur Approach and Fluenz. I am doing this both for future trips to Quebec City and Paris and a mental exercise. I do have neighbors who are fluent so I can practice speaking with them. My goal is not to be fluent but more conversational.

I first studied French in a rather progressive Catholic elementary school. My teacher knew then what we know now that children learn languages easier at a young age. When I studied French in high school my teacher was surprised what I already knew. I want to be more conversational but my brain also needs the exercise.

If you have used any of the systems available please let me know.
I'll be staying tuned for responses. In particular I'd like to bone up on my French Canadian French.

Canadian French has a significantly different accent and many different words and usages from Parisian/cosmopolitan French. You will be easily understood speaking the latter in La Belle Province but you might not always get what the Quebecois are saying; many Quebecois consider a Parisian French snooty or pretentious.

JohnMichael
07-15-2013, 05:46 AM
Funny story from the bar in the Manoir Victoria Hotel in Quebec City. I was sitting and drinking some wine when a gentleman from Paris sat beside me. The bartender was having a hard time understanding him but I knew what he was asking. I relayed his request since she could understand my French.



I'll be staying tuned for responses. In particular I'd like to bone up on my French Canadian French.

Canadian French has a significantly different accent and many different words and usages from Parisian/cosmopolitan French. You will be easily understood speaking the later in La Belle Province but you might not always get what the Quebecois are saying; many Quebecois consider a Parisian French snooty or pretentious.

Feanor
07-15-2013, 06:04 AM
Funny story from the bar in the Manoir Victoria Hotel in Quebec City. I was sitting and drinking some wine when a gentleman from Paris sat beside me. The bartender was having a hard time understanding him but I knew what he was asking. I relayed his request since she could understand my French.
Good one!