Living in France doesn’t automatically make speaking French easy.
Many adult learners understand written French at a B1 level but still hesitate when speaking in real-life situations — at work, with neighbors, or during social conversations.
One of the best free resources I recommend is the learning platform from TV5MONDE:
👉 Apprendre le français avec TV5MONDE
This platform offers authentic videos, transcripts, and interactive exercises based on real French media — not textbook dialogues.
Below are 5 excellent B1-level activities you can use to improve listening, vocabulary, and — most importantly — speaking confidence.
1️⃣ “Mi-temps” – Talking About Daily Life in France
🔗 https://apprendre.tv5monde.com/fr/exercices/b1-intermediaire/mi-temps
This activity focuses on everyday routines and work-life balance — perfect for learners living in France.
Why it’s useful:
Vocabulary related to daily habits
Understanding natural spoken French
Describing routines and schedules
Speaking extension:
Describe your typical weekday in France.
What do you like or dislike about your routine?
Has your life changed since moving to France?
2️⃣ “Une nouvelle vie” – Starting Over
🔗 https://apprendre.tv5monde.com/fr/exercices/b1-intermediaire/une-nouvelle-vie
This activity explores life changes and new beginnings — very relatable for expats and international residents.
Why it’s useful:
Expressing past experiences
Talking about adaptation and challenges
Using “au début… maintenant…” structures
Speaking extension:
What was difficult when you first arrived in France?
What is easier now?
What advice would you give to newcomers?
3️⃣ “Histoire de la presse” – Media and Information
🔗 https://apprendre.tv5monde.com/fr/exercices/b1-intermediaire/histoire-de-la-presse
This topic introduces vocabulary related to media and communication.
Why it’s useful:
Understanding formal spoken French
Expanding cultural knowledge
Discussing news and information
Speaking extension:
Where do you get your news?
Is French media different from your country?
Do you prefer digital or traditional newspapers?
4️⃣ “Vous avez dit ‘écriture’ ?” – Language and Expression
🔗 https://apprendre.tv5monde.com/fr/exercices/b1-intermediaire/vous-avez-dit-ecriture
This activity helps learners reflect on writing and communication.
Why it’s useful:
Vocabulary related to language
Understanding explanations and definitions
Discussing communication styles
Speaking extension:
Is writing easier than speaking for you? Why?
How do you improve your vocabulary?
Do you prefer formal or informal communication?
5️⃣ “Les objets recyclés” – Lifestyle
🔗 https://apprendre.tv5monde.com/fr/exercices/b2-avance/france-les-objets-recycles
Talk about consuming, recycling, producing
Want to practice with a French tutor? Contact me