Understanding progress in French: why do you feel like you're learning more slowly than others?
You are motivated, consistent in your work, and actively participate in class... yet you sometimes feel that your progress in French is slower than that of your classmates. It's frustrating, we understand! But rest assured, this is a common feeling among language learners, and there are concrete solutions to overcome it.
In this article, the Accent Français team helps you understand the possible reasons for this feeling and gives you practical advice to continue progressing with confidence.
🔍 Why do you feel that way?
1. Different starting levels
When learning a language, each person arrives with a unique linguistic background. Perhaps you started with less vocabulary, or with a different grammatical foundation.
But that doesn't mean you're not progressing well; your starting point was simply not the same as everyone else's.
2. A learning style that suits you less
Everyone learns differently: some people are visual learners, others are auditory learners, and others need interaction to memorize information. If you haven't yet found the learning method that works for you, your progress may seem slower. At Accent Français, we use a variety of materials (films, TV series, comics, songs, games, etc.) so that everyone can find what works for them.
3. Less practice outside of class
Real progress comes from daily exposure to the language. And that's where immersion comes in. When you live in France, every moment of the day becomes a learning opportunity. You can chat with your host, go shopping, read signs... In just one week of immersion, you can sometimes make more progress than you would in several months at home!
4. Comparison with others
Do you compare your level to that of others? It's normal... but not always constructive. Everyone progresses at their own pace, with their own strengths and challenges. What matters is your own progress. Look at where you're starting from, not where others are!
🎯 How can we continue to progress calmly?
1. Find what works for you
Do you prefer learning by listening to podcasts? By reading novels? By talking with native speakers? Try out different methods and choose the ones that really motivate you. Accent Français offers a variety of educational resources to help you find your style.
2. Practice regularly, a little every day
Even 10 minutes a day can make a big difference. Read an article in French, watch a video, listen to a song... It's by practicing often that you'll develop real reflexes.
3. Set realistic goals for yourself.
Rather than aiming to become “fluent,” start with:
→ “I want to understand a movie in its original language without subtitles.”
→ “I want to order at a restaurant without hesitation.”
These small, concrete challenges will help you visualize your progress and stay motivated!
4. Be kind to yourself!
Learning a language is a long journey with ups and downs. It's normal to have doubts, make mistakes, and feel like you're not making progress. The important thing is to keep moving forward, step by step.
🚀 How about taking it to the next level?
At Accent Français, we support each student on their own learning journey. Whether you are a beginner or already advanced, our goal remains the same: to help you progress at your own pace, with enjoyment and confidence.
Do you really want to boost your French?
Nothing beats total immersion!
By joining one of our language stays in Montpellier, you will gain fluency and confidence, and you will practice French naturally every day in real-life situations.
Discover:
• 👉 Our French courses in Montpellier
• 👉 Our immersive stays and accommodation
• 👉 Our articles for learning in a different way
Key takeaways
Every bit of progress counts—every word you learn, every sentence you say, every mistake you make—it's all part of your learning process.
You're on the right track. Keep it up. 💪
And if you're ready to take the next step, we're here to help!
See you soon,
The Accent Français team
