If you've read our guide to the DELF A1 exam, you know it tests reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
What should you do to prepare for each of these sections?
Based on the tasks in each exam section, we've created a study guide to kick off your revision! Read on to learn how to prepare for each task, as well as tips for the exam.
Table of contents:
Reading
The reading task for DELF A1 involves reading four documents about everyday life and then answering a comprehension questionnaire.
How to prepare for DELF A1 reading
To prepare for this exam, practice reading A1-level French. But make sure you look up every word you don't understand. That'll help you build the vocabulary knowledge you need for an A1 exam, as well as familiarise you with grammar rules.
For reading comprehension practice, use our A1 Bilingual Reader exercises. These texts let you click on any phrase to see the English translation as you go.
Reading exam tips
If you're struggling to understand a word or sentence, reread the text. With a better understanding of the context, you may be able to figure out what a word or phrase means.
If you're not struggling to understand, be careful not to rush ahead! Always read the texts and questions twice if possible. That'll help you catch and avoid silly mistakes.
Writing
The writing portion of the exam requires you to complete two tasks. These include filling out a form, and writing a 40+ word message.
How to prepare for DELF A1 writing
To improve your writing, it takes not just practice but accurate corrections. Then you'll learn what you need to work on and how to avoid your mistakes in the future.
If you have access to a native speaker, in person or online, ask them to check and correct your work.
For a more academic approach, we've created A1 French writing exercises that help you practice and refine your writing skills! They'll show you both what you've done well and where you've gone wrong.
Writing exam tips
Show your command of the language by staying on topic. Answer exactly what's been asked.
Also, heavily proofread your work. Details like accents are easy to miss or forget, as are spelling mistakes!
Speaking
The speaking portion of the DELF A1 exam tests your ability to speak freely on a topic as well as converse naturally.
How to prepare for DELF A1 speaking
Converse with native speakers in person or online. This will help you improve as well as become more confident.
If you can't do that, check out the suggestions in these articles:
- Practice speaking French, whether or not you're in France
- Online speaking practice
- Solo speaking practice
Bear in mind though that to be a good speaker takes more than speech practice. You also need to practice listening so you can refine your pronunciation and hear where you're going wrong.
Speaking exam tips
Like in the writing exam, make sure your answers to questions stay on topic. This shows you've understood the question and have the vocabulary needed to answer it.
Listening
This section involves listening to several recordings, then completing a comprehension questionnaire.
How to prepare for DELF A1 listening
Both passive and active listening can help you improve your listening skills.
For passive listening, listen to radio, TV, or other media in French. Of course, you won't understand everything. But it helps your brain practice identifying what you do know, as well as get used to new vocabulary.
For active listening, use our A1 French listening exercises. These also help you practice how to answer questions about what you've heard.
Listening exam tips
We have three big tips for this exam!
First, listen with different intentions each time the audio is played. On the first listen, figure out the gist. On the second listen, focus on the details. That's the best way to absorb the information.
Second, don't let unfamiliar words distract you. Don't focus on deciphering a phrase you don't know at the cost of missing the next sentence. Just focus on absorbing as much information as possible.
Thirdly, this is not a writing exam! Don't stress too much about using flawless grammar. It's more important to answer the questions accurately than it is to write in perfect French.
Gear up for the DELF A1 exam with Progress with Lawless French!
Did you know that Progress with Lawless French categorises all its lessons by CEFR level? That means you can find everything you need for the exam by checking our A1 grammar lesson section.
Our French Learning Library is full of lessons and exercises to help you learn and practice the skills you need for this French language diploma. Then remember to test your skills with kwizzes and check your progress on your Brainmap.
Get access to all this and more by signing up for a free Progress with Lawless French account today!
