Learning a language fluently-what works

[Whattodowithaminute]

We are just back from a lovely holiday in France and I’m now committed to learning French fluently. I have rusty gcse knowledge but really want to step up-what works? Im registered with duolingo to get started, do I need to go to classes? Read the paper/podcasts/watch tv...?!!

I was you 12 years ago OP, and I have really enjoyed improving my French and have made lots of new friends along the way. I would say my level is very competent but not fluent. I think you would actually have to live in France full time to attain that level. I can read novels and newspapers and chat away quite happily, I am often complemented on my French when on holiday, but I do still have problems sometimes understanding replies. I can understand news on tv but still find some drama difficult. I find that watching with French subtitles useful where available.

You definitely need a class. You need to have someone to correct all your mistakes as you go along.

Memrise is good and podcast apps, as practising listening is important.

TonTon your username gives me the shivers every time I see it.

That’s helpful everyone and inspiring tonton to know you’ve done what I think I’m aiming for. I want to be competent rather than fluent in the purest sense.