1)      It is important to meet regularly and to divide the time between the two languages equally.

2)      Arrange weekly meetings, for example twice a week.

3)      When you receive the email address of your partner, you should introduce yourself: tell them how old you are, what you study, where you live, what you like doing, why you learn the foreign language...

4)      Do not forget to tell your tandem partner what you need and how you would like to be corrected. For instance, you could focus on a particular linguistic ability: grammar, vocabulary, familiar usage of the       language, discourse construction... For example, if you want to improve your grammar, you can ask your tandem partner to correct your mistakes and say the right form.

5)      If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to ask your partner. You should also help your partner if they have any questions.

6)      Keep in mind that your partner is not a teacher: they can spot your mistakes, but maybe they cannot explain why. A grammar book can be useful in these situations.

7)      You can talk about anything you like. However, we suggest choosing specific topics, so that the work does not become dispersive.

8)       You can choose one of the proposed topics and ask a friend to ask you some questions about it (at least 10 questions). Recorder your conversation, then listen carefully and analyse the recording. How was your use of vocabulary? Did you use always the same expressions? Were your answers too short or were they long and complete? Was the conversation fluent or did you get stuck sometimes? Did you make many grammar mistakes?

9)    You can keep a journal of your work; it can be really useful.

10)  A self-evaluation of your language skills based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages could also be really useful. It is possible to receive a copy at the Language Centre.