SmartFrench: Beginner Level - Learn French from Real French People
by Christian Aubert
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Book Reviews of SmartFrench: Beginner Level - Learn French from Real French People
Book Review: Very unique and effective!
Summary: 5 Stars
I have studied French off and on since high school. Years ago I studied Spanish with a system similar to this one. It seems to be the only system that really works for me--and now it works for French also! I have tried the traditional approach--answer response, etc. reading all the phrases in the "basic conversations for tourists,,,." This method teaches (1) how the language actually sounds when spoken by people other than language instructors; and (2) gives one a more acceptable accent and an instinctive understanding of what is going on. It's unnerving sometimes not to see everything printed out for verification, but my experience shows that this aural/oral method is probably the fastest way to get a real grasp of the language (at least for me!)--and of course, if you must, the translations are all there for those who wish. I'm extremely pleased to have discovered this fantastically workable system! Thanks!!
Dr. Ellen R. Antoine
Prof. of Political Science
Book Review: Fabulous!!!!
Summary: 5 Stars
I have studied French off and on since high school. Years ago I studied Spanish with a system similar to this one. It seems to be the only system that really works for me--and now it works for French also! I have tried the traditional approach--answer response, etc. reading all the phrases in the "basic conversations for tourists,,,." This method teaches (1) how the language actually sounds when spoken by people other than language instructors; and (2) gives one a more acceptable accent and an instinctive understanding of what is going on. It's unnerving sometimes not to see everything printed out for verification, but my experience shows that this aural/oral method is probably the fastest way to get a real grasp of the language (at least for me!)--and of course, if you must, the translations are all there for those who wish. I'm extremely pleased to have discovered this fantastically workable system! Thanks!!
Dr. Ellen R. Antoine
Prof. of Political Science
Book Review: The ultimate tool to help you learn French- A must have
Summary: 5 Stars
I am currently a high school student, in my second year of French. Before SmartFrench, I did not enjoy learning the language. I have been to France four times already, and I only enjoyed my stay in France the fourth time, after I had been using SmartFrench. SmartFrench truly immerses me in the true French language, spoken by the French. After using SmartFrench, I was able to hold a French conversation smartly. SmartFrench has enabled me to be accustomed to the speed and style of spoken French. Along the way, I have also picked up valuable vocabulary. I am proud to say that after using SmartFrench, I have completed French II in highschool, with a 98%. No kidding. After trying out a lot of French programs, I have finally hit the jackpot with SmartFrench. I would like to personally thank the creaters of SmartFrench, for enabling me to finally understand and enjoy the French language.Book Review: Disappointed
Summary: 2 Stars
I am really an intermediate student rather than beginner, but thought I'd start with the beginner CDs in this series. Like most intermediate students of a language, I need to work on listening comprehension. This program does strive for that, but in my opinion offers too few opportunities to listen to native French speakers. Too repetitious--I kept falling asleep, or having trouble paying attention. Can't believe I bought these CDs! The narrator keeps repeating points he had already made...I won't be bothering with the intermediate or advanced versions.
And of course I bought them based on reviews from others, which I consider to be a good indicator...not in this case, though!
I have 2 other sets which I consider better (the "Learn French In Your Car" is especially good for beginners), and a set from the library that is no longer available.
Book Review: Not your primary method of learning
Summary: 3 Stars
The key is to understand what these CDs are, and what they are not. SmartFrench is not a comprehensive language course. It is a set of 7 dialogues which can help tune your ear to French, and help with your pronunciation. It is not a competitor for Pimsleur, which develops your recall response in the foreign language, or Learn in Your Car, which hones your grammar skills, or any variety of CDs available to build your vocabulary. These CDs do none of these things.
If you're looking to purchase your primary language learning tool or need a review, this definitely shouldn't be it. If your French vocabulary is excellent, but you've had limited exposure to the pronunciation, then these CDs might help with your comprehension or pronunciation.