How to learn a foreign language ? (objectives, level and organization)

I decided to show you how I learn a foreign language. You will see the method I use, and you can draw inspiration from it for your learning of French. So, I won't show you how I learn French because it's my native language. Nor will I show you how I learn English since I already have a rather advanced level. I'm going to show you how I learn Spanish.

I studied Spanish when I was in high school, and I would like to learn it again and use it, especially when I travel to Spain. So, I'm taking you with me on this new adventure. I have no idea how it will turn out or the pace of the episodes that will be released, but I'm very excited to show you how to learn a foreign language and hope to help you in your learning.

We start with episode 1, where I will establish my goals, my level, and my organization. These are three very important things to get off on the right foot and to be well organized. To do this, I will answer several questions that will help me organize my learning.

What are my goals?

My goal cannot simply be "I want to learn this language" or "I want to speak this language," as it's too vague. You need to have specific goals.

I want to learn this language so I can use it during my travels in Spain. I want to be able to manage when speaking in everyday life. I want to reach the B1 level within six months. I'm not in a hurry.

What is my current level?

Well, I'm not 100% sure of my current level, maybe A1. I think I’m a false beginner. It’s very important to know your level to know where to start. So, I will test my level with a teacher. I will test my level in all skills, particularly speaking, as it is often the most challenging skill. And generally, our level is weaker in speaking.

What are my specific needs?

I need to focus on all skills, specifically communication, which includes grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. I don’t need to prepare for any particular exam.

What is the best learning method for me?

I’m rather self-taught, so for passive skills like writing and comprehension, I will learn alone. But for active skills like conversation, I need to practice with real people. For now, my level doesn’t allow me to join a conversation group. And having a private teacher isn’t flexible enough for me. I would like to find a program similar to my Frenchothèque program, which includes self-paced lessons (listening and reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, etc.). And there is also the possibility of sending my written and spoken expressions to a teacher for correction. That would be the kind of program that would suit me perfectly.

What is my schedule?

Tough question! I don’t have a lot of time during my day. I need to be realistic and stick to the time I’ve set for myself. I think 15/20 minutes a day is reasonable. It may seem like little, but the important thing isn’t quantity, but consistency.

How will I practice regularly?

Do I have access to native speakers or non-native speakers to practice the language? Can I join conversation groups, online forums, or use apps?

I won’t join a conversation group right away, but it’s something I will do in the future because it’s the best way to practice and build confidence. To start, I will practice with a program similar to the Frenchothèque by sending my oral and written expressions to a teacher for personalized corrections.

How will I evaluate my progress?

Well, with the teacher’s feedback! It will allow me to see where I stand, what I need to improve, and to keep building on a solid foundation.