http://jt.france2.fr/
Another great way to learn and practice a language is by watching the news in that langauge. You should be able to do this online in most major languages. For example the the French tv station France 2 , put its principal new broadcasts online. Each emission is called a JT (journal televisé) and there are 3 per day; one at 8am , one at 13h and one at 20h. Normally the JT last 25-30mins, but usually they are segmented so you can skip ahead to pieces that interest you without having to watch the whole thing. Also the JT is streamed via Window Media player so there is no need to download any large files.
The quality of sound, and video is quite good unless you really enlarge the screen. The language used is very rich is vocabulary and a brilliant way to see current usage of the language. I have found it very accessible and although its not alot I try to watch at least one entire JT once a week. However, it is quite passive learning so you really have to concentrate on what is being said. Theres is a video control that allows you to rewind, forward and pause the video in order to give yourself time to digest what is being said. Overall, I think watching the JT is a good way to immerse yourself in the language and really makes you think in French. I would recommend as a good training in comprehension and attention to improve one's ability to follow French spoken at at normal pace.
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Hi David!
ReplyDeleteI agree on this as a good means to learn the language!(and also about the culture.
And you're right, it is passive learning, as it only involves the learner's listening skills.
There is another drawback... It could be hard to follow for someone who hasn't been exposed to the language often.. So I think it would better suit advanced learners :)
Well, that's my own opinion!
Also, I like your layout, it reminds me of a French medieval novel's cover... :)