French language Q&A Forum

It would benefit me and expedite my studies if the direct English translation were available just beneath the full text.  Though I usually understand the overall meaning of the text, I still have a few words on each exercise that are not obvious or already a part of my vocabulary.  Certainly I can copy and paste into google translate, but this takes unnecessary time and switching between windows.  Google translation is not perfect and sometimes offers an awkward rendering.  In this example, I was not used to the use of the word pistes to indicate ‘tips.’  I was also not familiar with ‘quant’ or ‘AVC.’

On a completely separate issue, I could benefit from a brief explanation of why particular verb forms are used in certain situations—use of the imparfait here created a little confusion.  A little ‘teacher’s notes’ section could be useful.

I get a lot out of work out of these dictees and appreciate having the opportunity to practice them.  I think with a little bit of extra explanation from your side, they could benefit me even further.  Thanks for your consideration.

J'ai visité Versailles dimanche dernier.

Why is it not: le dimanche dernier?

I understand une dizaine means 10 or so.  As do all the other examples in the lesson.  Therefore, what is the difference with the last example?

Je veux deux douzaines de pommes....  Why does this also not mean:

I want two dozen or so/or approximately - apples>  ?

Thank you.

J'habite aux Saudi Arabie. C'est vrai? 

I have spoken to several French natives regarding this issue...their age~ 35yo

1. They use 'suivre' for "taking a French course...Je suis un cours de français and never 'prendre' for a full course. But!! I was told that if you are referring to a specific class you can say: "Je prend une classe de français aujourd'hui"

2. For "I passed my bac"... I was thought to use 'Reussir'..J'ai réussi mon bac...They said 'Avoir' is used more commonly now.

I suspect that the common usage will vary as vary with regions of the country,as it does everywhere