Learning a new language is a journey that demands dedication, patience, and guidance. When it comes to learning French, many online French classes in India tend to follow the traditional prescriptivist approach, focusing on rigid grammar rules and correct accents. French Kaliké, a Bangalore-based institute offering online French lessons, adopts the descriptivist approach to teaching French. This approach sets it apart from French classes in Pune, Kolkata, and other major Indian cities offering students a unique advantage as they embark on a journey to master the language, especially in preparation for the DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) and TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français) exams.
What differentiates a descriptivist DELF A1 course from a prescriptivist one?
Here is how Rohan Murti’s classes at French Kaliké differ from other online French classes in India:
1. Students can question grammatical rules:
One of the most significant differences between the descriptivist and prescriptivist approaches is the instructor’s treatment of grammatical rules. Traditional prescriptivist classes often present grammatical rules as inflexible and absolute. French Kaliké, however, encourages students to question these rules, fostering a deeper understanding of the nuances of French. This approach allows learners to grasp the etymologies of every word they encounter in their language-learning journey. This understanding paves the way for more intuitive language acquisition.
2. The instructor does not emphasise the correctness of an accent:
Accents are an integral part of any language, contributing to its uniqueness and charm. While prescriptivist classes might prioritise achieving a specific accent, French Kaliké recognizes that language proficiency is about effective communication rather than perfection in pronunciation. Instead of focusing solely on rigid accent training, the emphasis is placed on clear and confident communication. This approach not only reduces the fear of speaking but also allows students to interact more naturally with native speakers.
3. The evolution of French is appreciated and embraced:
Languages are living entities that evolve over time due to cultural shifts, societal changes, and technological advancements. The descriptivist approach acknowledges this evolution and prepares students for real-world language usage. At French Kaliké, Rohan Murti incorporates contemporary language expressions, idioms, and trends, helping learners adapt to the language’s current form and enabling them to engage in meaningful conversations with native speakers.
4. Contextual learning takes centre stage:
Descriptivist classes recognize the importance of context in language usage. Instead of memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules in isolation, French Kaliké focuses on teaching language in context. Students are exposed to authentic materials like news articles, videos, and dialogues that mirror real-life situations. This approach not only enhances comprehension but also equips learners with the skills to navigate diverse language scenarios effectively.
5. Creativity and individual expression and encouraged:
Languages are tools for self-expression, and the descriptivist approach celebrates this aspect. French Kaliké fosters a creative learning environment where students can express themselves using the language’s building blocks. This approach not only makes learning engaging but also boosts learners’ confidence as they discover their unique voice in French.
Know More About Our Approach at French Kaliké:
At French Kaliké, we believe in providing a language learning experience that mirrors real-world language usage. Our descriptivist approach empowers students to not only master the language’s mechanics but also engage with it authentically. By questioning grammatical rules, embracing language evolution, and prioritizing effective communication over rigid accents, we equip our students with the tools they need to excel in the DELF and TEF exams and beyond.
Click here to learn more about our upcoming DELF A1 courses. For any inquiries, head straight to our About page.