The key to successful TCF and TEF preparation
In searching for the ideal strategy, it is important to realize not so much the advantages of different approaches (this reference to the previous post, in case you haven’t read it), how many are their disadvantages. Often these disadvantages arise when loss of control over learning. For example, when a student underestimates the writing section, when lessons become casual chats without any focus on the exam format, or when occasional meetings with a teacher are the only thing that motivates a student to read in French.
Therefore true strategy, as for me, it starts with a clear goal and monitoring of each stage of preparation. This applies to both the student and the teacher. Only then is 100% control over the process achieved on both sides, and not the traditional 50 to 50.
By total control I mean collaborative, regular and focused work. In the context of preparing for the exam at level B2, with the actual level B1, this approach naturally becomes intense. This is a kind of sprint 🏃♀️, where every action matters and the goal is clearly defined.
Remembering my own experience of learning French, when not by some long-standing love from the first grade, but by chance, at the age of 18 I ended up in the French department and began to learn the language from scratch, I can definitely say that it was not a slow, smooth process, but concentrated, intense efforts with complete control. It is thanks to this experience, as well as the experience of the students, that I can say that this approach allows you to achieve goals quickly and efficiently. But, to be honest, it’s rarely fun and enjoyable.
Therefore, the intensive approach ⚠️ is not for everyone. It takes time, self-discipline and motivation. This is an ideal choice for those who are by nature, like me - sprinter, ready for diligence and complete dedication. And intensity here does not mean endless exercises according to the principle, the more the better, but rather deep and targeted study of only the necessary material in a short time. This is a concentrated and systematic development of those structures, vocabulary, dialogue skills and monologue construction that you need to successfully pass the chosen exam. This could be five classes a week for one and two for another. The main thing is to determine the goal, the starting point and draw a “route”. The second and third are the lot of the teacher.
⚠️On the student’s part, it is important to choose the appropriate format, find an exam center, decide on exam dates and start preparing in advance so that the educational process does not lose its flexibility, allowing you to adapt the intensity depending on needs and circumstances.
By coming to the teacher with such preliminary work and information collected, the student receives a mentor for strategic planning of each lesson, and the teacher receives a motivated student. Ideal, in my opinion.