Tutor profile: Anna P.

What are the most difficult challenges to learning French?

As an English speaker learning French, the hardest areas in grammar include gender of words (le,la) and correct use of prepositions. You can identify a true native speaker by their correct use of both. Another difficulty for English speakers pertains to the auditory recognition of words early on in their learning. The French link every sound together, which is why it is such a beautiful language to listen to, but it is difficult for the beginner to distinguish words. The French also use a different verb tense in formal written language, which is never actually spoken. While many English speakers can be understood by learning basic vocabulary, it is the mastery of the complexity of French grammar that must be learned to truly become fluent.

What would you consider to be the most important focus for someone wanting to improve their own personal development in order to be more effective in the workplace?

When working with an individual on professional development, it is first important to understand the goals that person has within their careers and identify the obstacles to achieving them. That said, the most important area to improve upon is almost always in the field of self awareness. Understanding ones strengths and weaknesses and learning how to be comfortable with them in an emotionally intelligent way allows the greatest impact within any work environment.

How would you begin to teach someone English as a Second Language?

Most people learning ESL are adults and have very immediate needs to learn the language in order to function. It is important to understand the needs of the individuals studying in order to quickly get them to a place of functioning. These early wins that tackle the practical nature of their learning will give them the motivation and confidence to go deeper into greater understanding of the language and culture.