French Language Software |
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We've experimented with over a dozen different French language software programs. Here are our reviews of a few of the ones we liked best. All of them have a free trial of some sort, plus at least a 30 day unconditional money back guarantee.
Rocket FrenchLearn French fast with games, interactive audio, speech recognition, natural language conversations, self-paced learning, and unlimited online French language help from native French speaking teachers. Built in automatic progress tracking, and bite-sized lessons to fit easily into your busy schedule. Perfect for the complete beginner or returning French student looking to brush up before a trip.Rocket French teaches French language reading, writing, comprehension and conversational skills. It provides computer based and audio mp3 lessons, available either via an internet download, or in a package of 20 CDs. Pros Fun and flexible learning methods, not boring or repetitive. Games, flash cards, and the random button spice things up and keep it interesting. Lots of different ways of learning the same content, so you get the repetition needed to learn without seeing the exact same thing over and over. Covers content from absolute beginner to fluent conversational French, so if you complete the course you will be able to have actual, meaningful discussions with French speakers. Cons Download can take significant time initially, depending on your connection speed. It took about 1/2 hour over my cable modem. Pictures used to teach words can sometimes be confusing as to what the picture is supposed to show. No feedback on your accent from the software.
Tell Me More Performance French
With Tell Me More Performance French, you can learn the basics of French very quickly, and then progress from there to full fluency at your own pace if you desire. With a range of customizable computer learning modes plus audio mp3s and printable worksheets, and instruction on grammar, vocabulary, oral, and written language plus the culture, you get a strong, well rounded french immersion program that is fast paced but flexible.
24/7 free online support via chat is available for any questions or issues. You can purchase in different level packs: TELL ME MORE Performance French 2 levels TELL ME MORE Performance French 5 levels TELL ME MORE Performance French 10 levels Pros Highly customizable - you can follow a guided track specific to your objectives, or jump around and focus on what interests you. Feedback on your pronunciation is clear and helpful. The best option for a self-motivated, serious French learner who wants to reach a certain level as fast as possible wih no distractions. Cons No download option available, so you have to wait for CDs to show up in the mail. Lack of games or "fun" options can make learning feel like "work", although some people prefered it for the less "frivolous" approach. FrenchPod from Praxis
FrenchPod is a new system that centers around podcasts and web 2.0 style learning communities. It is internet delivered via mp3 lessons (podcasts), RSS lesson feeds, downloadable / printable study materials, and other online study tools. Interesting lessons with dialog that makes you feel like you're really in Paris - nothing stilted or boring.
For iPod / iPhone addicts, this is a great system. You can learn French using audio and video podcasts, plus study tools like virtual flashcards. And the online community is active and very helpful. Free introductory lessons. Subscription based, so you can sign up by the month or year. Pros Very fast and effective learning system, with easy to follow audio and video podcasts that make it convenient to learn French anywhere, anytime. Cons Not very customizable, no "progress track" or games, no feedback system for practicing your accent. |
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