Adult
Children and Youth
Level2
Session
Location
Type
Pace

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B2 - Upper Intermediate

"French Couturiers and their legacy”. Le chic parisien d'hier à aujourd'hui

Minis
Discover the fascinating history of French fashion through the iconic couturiers who have left their mark on their era. This course will explore the unique contributions of some of the most famous names in French fashion, shedding light on their impact on culture, art, and society.
We will begin by exploring the iconic legacy of Yves Saint Laurent; his collaborations with stars and his ties to art history, including iconic pieces like the Mondrian-inspired dress.
Then, we'll delve into Coco Chanel's pivotal role in women's emancipation, from popularizing trousers to her influence during the German occupation. We'll track the evolution of the Chanel Empire to the present, highlighting her enduring impact.
Following that, we'll conduct a detailed analysis of Dior and Courrèges, focusing on their contributions to women's liberation through innovations like the short skirt and the exploration of female body evolution in the 20th century.
Finally, we'll examine Jean-Paul Gaultier's groundbreaking work, his Parisian connections, his legendary collaboration with Madonna, and his influence on 2000s France. We'll also discuss the evolution of masculinity in fashion and the impact of fast fashion on the industry today. This class is open to students at level B1 and above, with the prerequisite of having completed level 301 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

403

Core Classes
The 403 class is the third step for students wishing to master the B2 level. Our B2 level Core Class is for students progressing from B1 level and wishing to master the B2 level.
Pace: Regular

405

Core Classes
The 405 class is the fifth step for students wishing to master the B2 level. Our B2 level Core Class is for students progressing from B1 level and wishing to master the B2 level.
Pace: Regular

406

Core Classes
The 406 class is the last step for students wishing to master the B2 level. Our B2 level Core Class is for students progressing from B1 level and wishing to master the B2 level.
Pace: Regular

Advanced Conversation: The Permanent Insurrection: Why France Prefers Barricades to Compromise

Specialty & Cultural Classes

Step into a bold and thought-provoking exploration of French identity in this unique 7-week summer course.

L’Insurrection Permanente invites advanced learners (C1) to discover how protest, revolution, and political upheaval have shaped France, from the French Revolution to today’s social movements. Through engaging discussions, cultural analysis, and authentic texts, you’ll explore why resistance and debate are at the heart of French society.

This is not a traditional language class: it’s an immersive journey into history, culture, and ideas, combined with advanced speaking and critical thinking practice. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to deepen both your language skills and your understanding of France.


Pace: Regular

Advanced French Conversation: L’ exception amoureuse — Hubris and French Passions

Specialty & Cultural Classes

In France, love is often seen as more than a feeling — it is a force that challenges rules, society, and even reason. Designed for advanced learners (B2–C1), this course explores the idea of hubris — the excess that drives lovers to break boundaries. Through the study of ten famous couples, students will discover how the French language expresses the many shades of passion, from scandal and seduction to freedom and existential partnership. We will read authentic love letters, excerpts from libertine literature, and explore films and music that sparked debate. More than a language class, this course offers a deeper understanding of why passion and freedom are central to French culture.


Pace: Regular

Cinéma - Delphine Seyrig: Actrice de Combat

Minis

Join us on Zoom, beginning May 11th, at 12 noon on Mondays, to discuss 3 French films featuring the French actress, filmmaker and activist, Delphine Seyrig. Discover Alain Resnais’ surreal dream which lavishly fuses the past with the present (L’Année Dernière à Marienbad); Resnais’ third feature film, a brilliant masterpiece on selective memory, offering a spellbinding mosaic of images preserving, destroying, falsifying or testifying to the past (Muriel Ou Le Temps D’un Retour); and Luis Bunuel’s surrealistic farce, encompassing South American politics, Church clerics, the army, and the monied upper class (Le Charme Discret de la Bourgeoisie). You will be expected to see the three films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee.



Pace: Regular

DELF B2 Preparation

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Part 2. Having completed part 1 is not required. This class will interest you if: 1. You are planning on passing DELF B2 exam and need to prepare for it. 2. You’ve completed B2 level and wish to consolidate the newly acquired skills, all the while evaluating your strengths andweaknesses before jumping to next level. The class has a double goal: preparing you to DELF exam structure and work on all of the aspectsone needs to master in order to validate a level to successfully start the next one. A partial simulation of the DELF exam (except oralproduction part) in the end of the 10-week series will allow students to have a comprehensive evaluation of their skills.. 
Pace: Regular

Discover Swiss Culture

Minis
Welcome to our French class on Switzerland! When we mention milk chocolate, banking secrecy, Heidi, and neutrality, what country comes to mind? Switzerland, of course! In this course, you'll have the opportunity to discover the characteristics of this small country and its French-speaking region through its captivating history, rich traditions, delicious cuisine, distinctive French language, and unique politics. Get ready to uncover the best-kept secrets of the Swiss Confederation! Additionally, students will have the option, if they choose, to prepare oral presentations. Join us for a fascinating exploration of Switzerland through the French language. This class is open to students at level B1 and above, with the prerequisite of having completed level 301 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
C1 - Advanced

Advanced Conversation: The Permanent Insurrection: Why France Prefers Barricades to Compromise

Specialty & Cultural Classes

Step into a bold and thought-provoking exploration of French identity in this unique 7-week summer course.

L’Insurrection Permanente invites advanced learners (C1) to discover how protest, revolution, and political upheaval have shaped France, from the French Revolution to today’s social movements. Through engaging discussions, cultural analysis, and authentic texts, you’ll explore why resistance and debate are at the heart of French society.

This is not a traditional language class: it’s an immersive journey into history, culture, and ideas, combined with advanced speaking and critical thinking practice. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to deepen both your language skills and your understanding of France.


Pace: Regular

Advanced French Conversation: L’ exception amoureuse — Hubris and French Passions

Specialty & Cultural Classes

In France, love is often seen as more than a feeling — it is a force that challenges rules, society, and even reason. Designed for advanced learners (B2–C1), this course explores the idea of hubris — the excess that drives lovers to break boundaries. Through the study of ten famous couples, students will discover how the French language expresses the many shades of passion, from scandal and seduction to freedom and existential partnership. We will read authentic love letters, excerpts from libertine literature, and explore films and music that sparked debate. More than a language class, this course offers a deeper understanding of why passion and freedom are central to French culture.


Pace: Regular

Advanced French: Current Events and Media Analysis

Minis
This advanced French course is designed for students at the C1/C2 level who wish to deepen their understanding and analysis of French current events. Through interactive classes, participants will explore major events and debates in contemporary French society by analyzing newspapers, articles, reports, and television programs. The course aims to develop skills in oral and written comprehension and expression, enrich vocabulary specific to the media, and strengthen the ability to argue in French for complete immersion in the French language and culture.
Pace: Regular

Cinéma - Delphine Seyrig: Actrice de Combat

Minis

Join us on Zoom, beginning May 11th, at 12 noon on Mondays, to discuss 3 French films featuring the French actress, filmmaker and activist, Delphine Seyrig. Discover Alain Resnais’ surreal dream which lavishly fuses the past with the present (L’Année Dernière à Marienbad); Resnais’ third feature film, a brilliant masterpiece on selective memory, offering a spellbinding mosaic of images preserving, destroying, falsifying or testifying to the past (Muriel Ou Le Temps D’un Retour); and Luis Bunuel’s surrealistic farce, encompassing South American politics, Church clerics, the army, and the monied upper class (Le Charme Discret de la Bourgeoisie). You will be expected to see the three films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee.



Pace: Regular

Order This Course

$155.00 USD

Code: 26E Session 1 ActuCulture
This advanced French course is designed for students at the C1/C2 level who wish to deepen their understanding and analysis of French current events. Through interactive classes, participants will explore major events and debates in contemporary French society by analyzing newspapers, articles, reports, and television programs. The course aims to develop skills in oral and written comprehension and expression, enrich vocabulary specific to the media, and strengthen the ability to argue in French for complete immersion in the French language and culture.

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PARKING

Street parking on SW 20th St. facing the Kamm House is limited. Free parking is available in Lot A at SW 18th and SW Columbia. Please obtain a parking pass from the office. After 6 pm weekdays, students may park in the Willamette Dental lot at SW 20th and SW Jefferson as available.

OFFICE HOURS

The Alliance office is open 10am-3pm Monday through Friday.
Call us at 503.223.8388 during business hours or leave a message.
Email us at  info@afportland.org.

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