How to Prepare for the DELF A2 Reading Test?

Exam format and the time allotted

Format:

• Number of texts: 3-4 texts of various lengths and styles (emails, articles, advertisements, etc.)
• Question types: Multiple-choice, matching, fill-in-the-blanks (can vary per text)
• Focus: Assessing your ability to understand everyday written French

Time allotted:

• 30 minutes for the entire Reading section

Remember:

• You can read through the texts multiple times before answering the questions.
• Don’t panic if you don’t understand every word. Use context clues and process of elimination to choose the best answer.
• Practice reading different types of texts in French beforehand to get comfortable with the format.

Types of questions that can be asked:

The reading comprehension section of the DELF A2 exam uses a variety of question formats to test your understanding of everyday written French. Here are some of the most common types you can expect:

1. Multiple Choice: 

These are the most frequent and test your overall understanding of the text. You’ll be presented with a question and several answer choices, with only one being correct. They might target:

• Main idea: What is the central message or topic of the text?
• Specific details: Can you find information mentioned directly in the text?
• Vocabulary: Do you understand the meaning of specific words or phrases?
• Inferences: Can you draw conclusions based on the information given?

2. Matching: 

These require you to match elements from two lists based on their relationship. It could be:

• Matching text snippets to their corresponding headings or topics.
• Matching definitions to vocabulary words used in the text.
• Matching characters to their descriptions or actions.

3. Fill-in-the-blanks: 

You’ll be given a text with missing words or phrases, and you have to choose the correct options from provided choices. This assesses your understanding of:

• Grammar and sentence structure: Can you identify the missing element based on its grammatical role?
• Vocabulary in context: Can you choose the word that fits the meaning of the surrounding text?

4. True/False statements: 

These statements relate to information in the text and you need to decide if they are true or false based on your comprehension.

5. Short written answers: 

In some cases, you might be asked to answer a question in writing by providing a short sentence or paragraph. This might involve:

• Summarizing a specific aspect of the text.
• Expressing your opinion based on the information presented.
• Completing a short message or dialogue started in the text.

Useful practices to prepare for the reading test:

1. Read, Read, Read:

• Read graded readers: These books are specifically designed for learners at different levels, including A2. They offer engaging stories with controlled vocabulary and grammar, making them perfect for practice.
• Read authentic materials: Start with short and simple texts like news articles, blog posts, or children’s stories. As you progress, gradually move to more complex materials like magazine articles, advertisements, or even short novels.
• Subscribe to French podcasts/newsletters: This exposes you to spoken and written French simultaneously, improving your comprehension and vocabulary in a fun way.

2. Master basic grammar and vocabulary:

• Review key grammar points: Ensure you understand sentence structure, verb conjugations, and essential tenses used in daily communication.
• Build your vocabulary: Use flashcards, apps, or word lists to learn new words relevant to everyday topics covered in the exam.
• Focus on vocabulary in context: Pay attention to how words are used in the texts you read, not just their isolated definitions.

3. Practice timed reading exercises:

• Find sample tests online or create your own: Allocate 30 minutes to simulate the actual exam time and answer comprehension questions based on different texts.
• Increase the difficulty gradually: Start with shorter, simpler texts and gradually move to more challenging ones as you improve your speed and comprehension.
• Time yourself for each question type: This helps you develop a strategy for managing your time efficiently during the exam.

4. Analyze how questions are constructed:

• Review examples of DELF A2 reading comprehension questions: Get familiar with the different question formats and how they target specific information in the text.
• Pay attention to keywords and clues: Questions often contain words that hint at the answer you need to find in the text.
• Practice elimination strategies: If you’re unsure of the answer, eliminate obviously wrong options based on your understanding of the text.

5. Don’t panic – use context clues!:

• You won’t understand every word: It’s normal! Focus on the overall meaning and use surrounding information to figure out unknown words.
• Look for synonyms and paraphrases: The answer might not be worded exactly as it appears in the text.
• Think logically: Eliminate options that contradict the overall message or logic of the passage.

Materials:

Here are some of the best resources to prepare for the DELF A2 reading test, categorized for your convenience:

Official and reliable sources:

• France Education International (FEI): The official website of the DELF exam offers information about the format, sample papers, and exam dates.
• France Education International – DELF A2 Sample Paper: Download a sample paper with reading comprehension exercises and answer keys.

Online learning platforms:

• Kwiziq: Offers an A2-specific reading comprehension course with interactive exercises and personalized learning plans.
• Duolingo: While not specifically designed for DELF preparation, Duolingo offers a gamified approach to learning French vocabulary and grammar, good for building a strong foundation.
• La Fôret French Class: Join online classes at La fôret to prepare yourself for the exam.

Books and Apps:

• DELF A2 100 % réussite: This book provides practice exercises and strategies for all four sections of the exam, including reading comprehension.
• FrenchPod101: Offers a DELF A2 vocabulary app with audio recordings and quizzes.
• News in Slow French: Listen to current events news at a slower pace, improving your comprehension and vocabulary.

Other resources:

• YouTube channels: Many channels like InnerFrench and Learn French with Alexa offer free video lessons and tips for DELF preparation.
• French language blogs and websites: Find articles and resources on various topics related to French language learning and culture.
• Language exchange partners: Connect with native French speakers online or in person to practice your reading and conversation skills.

Additional tips:

Manage your stress: 

Take deep breaths to stay calm throughout the test. Stress can impair your focus and reading comprehension.

Use a watch: 

Keep track of time and adjust your pace if needed. Don’t rely solely on the exam clock.

Read the instructions carefully: 

Each question might have specific requirements, so pay attention to what information you need to find in the text.

Trust your instincts: 

If you have a strong feeling about an answer, go for it. Intuition can often be helpful in language tests.

Start implementing these tips now and feel confident on exam day. Bon courage!