IF you are keen to boost your French language skills then there are a number of websites that can help you out.
With the spread of broadband you can both listen to lessons, as well as in some cases watch them, which is likely to prove more effective than reading a reference book.
The opportunity to download audio in MP3 format exists on a number of sites, which means you can take the lessons wherever you go by placing them on a player, as well as create an archive on your computer.
Below I’ve highlighted a selection of online resources many of which offer both a free and paid for service, so at least you can get a taster should you decide to buy.
Lingomania
This site offers a number of CDs as well as subscription based audio for both adults and children. But they have free audio and accompanying .pdf files so you can read along at the same time on their podcast page.
Learn French by Podcast
There are now more than 60 lessons on this site which is run by Hugh Nagle, who I interviewed last year, covering a range of subjects. You can listen to the audio for free or sign up to receive the accompanying guides.
French PodClass
This site mixes both learning French and a dash of music to offer an entertaining method of picking up the language. Additional resources including video tips and extra vocabulary are available to subscribers.
Ma France
The BBC’s series of interactive videos that feature situations filmed around France. Because they are video you will need a broadband connection, but for those on dial-up there are transcripts to help you learn more.
France TV On Demand
A range of shows from the state television channels including regular news programmes, but also discussion shows and you can dip in for five or ten minutes to polish up your skills.