As the new school year unfolds, we’ve noticed a rising trend in parent requests for “Native French speaker only” instructors. This preference has been popping up in emails to us and has even found its way into various advertisements for French language schools, emphasizing the importance of “Native French Speakers only.” I think it’s important to address this trend, especially as our families prepare to meet their child’s new French teachers for the school year.
While the notion of a native French speaker guiding a child to achieve a “better accent” or enhanced language learning may seem appealing, it’s crucial to dispel this misconception. Recent research, such as the study “Native and Nonnative Teachers of L2 Pronunciation: Effects on Learner Performance” by JOHN M. LEVIS, SINEM SONSAAT, STEPHANIE LINK, and TAYLOR ANNE BARRIUSO, challenges the notion that native speakers are inherently superior language instructors. This comprehensive study compared the effectiveness of instruction on pronunciation skills between native and nonnative teachers.
In their study, both a nonnative and a native-English-speaking teacher were tasked with teaching the same pronunciation lessons over a 7-week period. Surprisingly, the results revealed that native listeners’ ratings of students’ comprehensibility were similar for both teachers, despite the prevailing preference for native instructors.
Reflecting on our own language learning journeys, we’ve realized that effective teaching transcends the teacher’s native status. Personally, my most exceptional French teacher in university was Polish with French being her fourth language. Her unique perspective allowed her to convey complex concepts that I had previously struggled with and helped me take my French to the next level.
At Les Petites Pommes, when selecting our teaching staff, we prioritize their linguistic fluency in French, their proven ability to teach effectively, and their alignment with our core values. While being a native French speaker is undoubtedly advantageous, it is only one factor among many that we consider.
As you prepare to meet your child’s French teacher this fall at school, we encourage you to focus on questions related to their teaching experience and history, rather than fixating on the origin of their accent. Understanding their pedagogical approach, their dedication to fostering a love for the French language and building confidence in the child, and their commitment to your child’s success will be more informative and valuable.
If there’s anything we can help you with, please reach out to us! Wishing you and your children a fantastic back-to-school season filled with language learning and growth!
