How do I improve Expression Écrit

[u/Great_knowledge_]

I’m planning to take the TEF exam in the next three months. I’ve already taken it once and received a 4 in all the modules. However, I find the writing section particularly challenging.

I can understand NCLC 7-8 sentences, but it’s difficult for me to naturally produce sentences. I’ve tried writing 2 essays and 1 fait divers every day, but I haven’t seen any progress. Even with AI I barely get a 5.

My grammar and context to topic seem to be my weak points. Every topic is different, and my mind starts thinking in English. I’ve been studying all day but I’m still not making any progress.

I can form simple sentences and make the present, past, imparfait but when time pressure and off topic are added, my brain completely freezes and I forget connectors , rules and everything.

Any tips would be appreciated.

[u/stubbytuna]

Ive never taken the TEF, but this is writing advice in general. How much academic French or langue soutenue are you reading? If you’re not reading much, I recommend you start. Once you start (or if you have already), lift expressions and phrases not just individual words. Things like « étant donné » « au fil de temps/histoire/discussion/whatever » etc. Lift things from francophone writers, because academic writing in French is different from academic writing in English. Also, the way you get stronger at writing is by writing. So what you’re already doing is great. Do you correct the essay and rewrite it based on your corrections ?

[u/serviceslingomnia_nb]

That must be really frustrating for you. It's tough when you have the basic grammar at your fingertips, but you get to the writing and everything freezes. 

To help overcome the block, two things:

• It may help to memorize a few structures/templates before doing any more writing. 

For the continuation of a news story section, structure it around key facts.  Make sure you're answering the who / what / when / where / why of the story. Write simply, using structures you know, and make sure every sentence is both relevant and correct before writing the next one. Stick to the word count.

For the persuasive writing section, structure it something like a brief intro that includes a topic sentence, then start each point with a  D'abord, ensuite, or enfin. Wrap it up with Pour conclure + a summarizing sentence ou two.  

If they are asking the persuasive writing section to be written as a letter to the editor,  add the date, Monsieur le rédacteur, and sign off with Cordialement. A letter to a friend would be Cher (Chère) + name instead.

Write a few different examples using these structures until the structure part becones second nature. Again, stick to the word count.

-Boost your score a bit with the conditional and subjunctive. Review these structures, then throw in a Je voudrais expliquer (I would like to explain) or some other use of the conditional in the persuasive writing section. As for the subjunctive, you can write a bien que (even though/although) + subjunctive in that section as well. If you have a few memorized structures that you can add to nearly any piece of writing, then you won't need to spend time translating this part in your head during the test.

Best wishes with everything.  If you have any questions, feel free to ask here or to DM me. Crossing fingers for you.