Methods

Before you leap into the world of “ouis” and “mademoiselles,” you might want to know how it is exactly you're going to learn French from a tutor.

For starters, tutoring is mostly a one-on-one arrangement between the French tutor you hire and yourself. Although a lot of French tutors may be teaching a number of students, the tutoring sessions are almost always held with just one. For lessons over the internet, your French tutor usually sends modules and exercises that you have to answer on the computer then send back for checking. There are also clips to watch and listen to. On duly appointed times, there may also be interaction through the web between you and your tutor, like a virtual class. These sessions are usually short and you may never actually see what your French tutor looks like.

Learning in person is a more hands-on experience, as it is easier for you to ask your French tutor questions at any time and the interaction is more personal. Most tutors prefer the formal method of teaching, using modules, exercise booklets and workbooks, like the internet style of tutoring. However, since your tutor knows you as a student personally, there may be more fun things incorporated into the formal lessons, like watching French movies or listening to French music. Plus, your tutor will be speaking French, so you will have a real model to follow and to correct you.

Any way you choose to go in hiring a French tutor, you can also supplement your lessons by yourself. Find ways to practice your French, like talking to people who speak it aside from your tutor. It will also help a great deal if you read up on French history and learn about their culture. That way, you'll not only have a better grasp of the French language, but when you go to France, you'll have something to talk to the natives about.