Uni degree French - struggling

[lovesT]

Hello,

I am currently doing a languages degree part time with the Open University. I'm doing English and French (intermediate). This is my second year and started this French module in October which started out okay and I have done one written assignments plus two small online ones and now have a spoken one coming up and to be honest I'm stressing a bit.

The module has suddenly started feeling really difficult and I'm struggling . On top of this I'll be having my first baby next month!!

I feel like I've hit a wall and don't know how to keep going. Does anyone have advice on learning French/ how to keep going?

Being able to practise French with people would be amazing but I don't really have anyone I can do that with.

Think I just needed to put my struggle out there ...

Thanks if you read this :)

[Paddington68]

Where are you in the country?

[BigFatLiar]

Try and find out if your local EA has any evening classes in French. May be a bit simple but could help give confidence in your speaking. They may even have a suitable level.

Also try the U3A, there may be local opportunities to speak in French, some have conversational groups.

[GuppytheCat]

I think if you're imminently giving birth, you may need to cut yourself some slack! Are you still working as well?

[lovesT]

@Paddington68 I'm in Kent.

@BigFatLiar i haven't heard of either of those but will look into local groups. I looked a while ago and there were a few but clashed with things at the time. But I think it's worth trying again 😊

@GuppytheCat haha yes I think you're right. I'm trying to get this assignment done ASAP so that I can chill a bit as the next one isn't for a few months so I think that's why I'm stressing a bit. I'm still working but not full time and have 4 weeks left (I wrk at a school so have had a nice long break for Christmas).

[Lightsabre]

Any language schools near you? Or, when baby arrives and you're settled, you could get on the ferry to Calais and practice your French on the ground. Easy journey from Kent and cheap if you book in advance as a foot passenger. Lots of people offering french conversational practice online also.

[LIZS]

Do you have any language cafe meet ups locally? It is a drop in session for those wanting to converse, both native and non native speakers. Some adult ed providers will do short courses to brush up for holidays and those with second homes abroad.

[PineappleDanish]

Lots of Netflix dramas in French! Watch with the subtitles in French too - reading and hearing is easier than just hearing the dialogue.