not too long, not too short
based on your interests
just speak spontaneously!
for maximal focus
une immersion authentique
Going from theoretical knowledge to real-life practice is a great challenge that we rarely have the chance to go for in traditional learning environments. The conversation sessions are a repeted dedicated moment during which the only thing you have to do and think about, is speak French. This is what will make you feel comfortable and flexible.
French phonology is pretty unique in its "flatness". The lack of accentuation, as well as the "liaison" rules, can make a French speech sound like a long and painful mumble. The good thing is : it's just a matter of habit and training. By practicing regular casual conversation with a native speaker, your listening skills will develop and allow you to understand better.
You know, these words we recognize when we see them, but that never come to mind when we need hem ? This is our passive knowledge. It is normal to understand more than you're able to speak. However, we can move elements from your passive memory to you active one, simply by using them more often, and making them relevant to you.
While your listening skills develop, your speech will become more fluid, grasping more precisely the intricacies of French sounds. Working with a qualified professional will allow you to receive phonetic correction when necessary, bringing you closer to phonological mastery.
Conversation sessions won't substitute for everything you'd encounter in a French-speaking environment. But, they will fix your fear of making mistakes, and will teach you to feel proud of your achievements. You can be a French speaker. You just have to speak French.
Topics are chosen regarding your hobbies, interests, passions. Some days may also be more casual as you might want to share recent events in your personal and professional life. The point is to reproduce real-life conversations you would have with a French-speaking person, not to re-enact school-like situations.
Perseverance is the key quality that will take you through the French-learning process. You will get frustrated, some weeks will be harder than others, you will need to explain whole concepts because you lack the needed vocabulary, you will have the feeling of always repeating the same mistakes, but all of these things are part of the journey. They are absolutely normal. You will overcome them with time and support from your tutor.
During the session, you'll receive a reasonable amount of tips, corrections, new words and explanations. The main goal is for you to speak, no matter which mistakes you make.
After the session, you'll receive a feedback sheet with the main errors you made, and new words that might be relevant to you in connection with our topic of the day.