Apprenez français cette année depuis le confort de votre maison. Break language barriers with Teacher Mel !!!

Find out more about Melissa

• 1) Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn it?

  My journey with French is rooted in both passion and inspiration. While I was not born into a French-speaking family, I was deeply inspired by highschool teacher Madame Linder (MHSRIP) who brought the language to life in such a vibrant and engaging way. That experience sparked my curiosity and motivated me to pursue fluency. Over time, through consistent practice, study, and immersion, French became not just a subject I teach, but a language I truly live.

• 2) Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  A figure that beautifully represents French culture is Victor Hugo. As a writer, he captured the depth, emotion, and social realities of France through works like Les Misérables. His writing reflects not only the richness of the French language but also its power to inspire change and evoke empathy. The themes he dealt with were quite interesting.

• 3) Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  One phrase I particularly love is “a la francaise ”, which means “the french way.” It perfectly captures the French mindset of doing things the French way. From the way they speak or think —whether it’s good food, meaningful conversations, or beautiful surroundings. It’s a philosophy that I also try to bring into my teaching. Parlez a la française!

• 4) Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking French opens doors to a diverse world of cultures, people, and opportunities. It allows meaningful communication across continents—from Europe to Africa and beyond. For me, it’s not just about language; it’s about connection, cultural appreciation, and empowering students with a global skill.

• 5) What is the main difficulty in learning this language, and what can help students with the learning process?

  One of the main challenges learners face is pronunciation and grammar structure, which can feel quite different from English. However, with consistent exposure, practice, and the right guidance, these challenges become manageable. I always encourage interactive learning—speaking, listening, and using the language in real-life contexts—as this builds confidence and fluency over time. Practise is key

• 6) Could you share an anecdote related to your language learning or your student days?

  I remember once confidently introducing myself in French, only to realize I had completely mixed up a verb and said something quite funny instead! While it was embarrassing at the time, it became a turning point for me—I learned not to fear mistakes. In fact, I now encourage my students to embrace them, because that’s where real learning happens.

• 7) How has travel or a specific experience helped you to increase your understanding and appreciation of the language?

  Interacting with native speakers—whether through travel or cultural exchanges—has significantly deepened my understanding of French. It taught me that language goes beyond textbooks; it includes tone, gestures, and cultural nuances. These experiences helped me bring authenticity into my lessons and make learning more meaningful for my students.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof?

  What makes me a Superprof is my dedication to my students’ success and my passion for teaching. I create a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel confident to express themselves. I tailor my lessons to suit different learning styles, ensuring that each student progresses at their own pace while staying motivated. My goal is not only to teach French but to inspire a lifelong love for the language.