At French Kaliké, we help students adopt a combination of methods to gain vocabulary at the DELF A1 level. Several students prefer watching films to gain vocabulary at the first level, and those who wish to learn French in Kolkata and across India often watch films in French to gain vocabulary. Rohan Murti at French Kaliké believes that films might not be the ideal vocabulary-building tool at the DELF A1 level. However, as one progresses to the DELF A2 level, a strategic approach to watching films can significantly enhance vocabulary acquisition. This article will give you tips on how you can strategically gain French vocabulary by exposing yourself to films.
Is watching films the best way to gain vocabulary?
At the DELF A1 stage, watching various films in French might not result in the student gaining vocabulary; since the dialogue in films tends to be natural and often includes colloquial expressions, idioms, and cultural references that might overwhelm novice learners. Moreover, the pace of speech, varying accents, and background noise in films can make it challenging for beginners to decipher the spoken language accurately. However, as learners progress to the DELF A2 level, they have a stronger foundation in the language and can employ a more structured strategy to benefit from films for vocabulary enhancement.
How to watch films with the objective of gaining vocabulary?
At the DELF A2 level and beyond, adopting a strategic approach to using films for vocabulary improvement can yield impressive results. French Kaliké suggests a four-point strategy that helps learners extract maximum benefit from the cinematic medium:
1. Identify the register employed in the film:
Understanding the appropriate level of formality and register in spoken language is crucial. Films provide an excellent platform to observe how characters interact in different contexts. Rohan recommends focusing on observing the register used by characters in different situations. For instance, noting how characters speak differently with family members, friends, or in formal settings like workplaces can help learners grasp the nuances of language usage.
2. Watch Twice: With English and French Subtitles:
Rohan suggests initially watching the film with English subtitles to get a general sense of the plot and dialogues. This helps learners follow the storyline and understand the context. Re-watching the film again with French subtitles exposes learners to the written form of the language, reinforcing the connection between spoken and written words. This dual-subtitle approach facilitates vocabulary absorption and comprehension.
3. Note down the Verbes à Particule (VAP) that interest you:
Verbes à particule, or phrasal verbs, are a cornerstone of spoken language in many languages, including French. Rohan’s approach at the DELF A1 and A2 levels is to help students master VAPs to be able to speak and write better in the exams. While watching films, identify instances where characters use VAPs. French Kaliké recommends jotting down these verbs and their meanings for future reference.
4. Try to incorporate the VAPs in your speaking and writing:
Once you have compiled a list of VAPs from films, aim to incorporate them into your daily language usage. Practising these verbs in both speaking and writing helps solidify their meanings and usage. French Kaliké advises learners to engage in conversations, write short paragraphs, or even create dialogues using the newly learned VAPs. This hands-on application ensures that the acquired vocabulary becomes an integral part of your language repertoire.
While films might not be the primary tool for beginners at the DELF A1 level, they can certainly become a valuable resource as learners progress to the DELF A2 level and beyond. To keep track of stellar French films of the past decades and know how to watch them as a student, follow our weekly film blog “Le Monde du Film.”