Learning French - Where To Begin?

For different learning profiles and personal schedules, the Alliance Française de Portland offers different ways to begin the adventure of learning French. Choose the path that corresponds to your goals and needs.  Scroll down to the bottom of this page to findout about beginner French classes (this list includes all of the classes at A0 and A1 levels). If you have questions, please write to info@afportland.org.

Things to know about beginner classes at our school:

Here are three different classes to start learning French

100

Have you been thinking of taking the leap into French but are apprehensive of the immersive learning style? Do you feel you might benefit from extra foundation work before diving into the full 100 series? If so, our Introduction to French course may be the perfect fit for you! This course is designed to help prepare you for French immersion through a gentle introduction to the method, supplemented with English. You’ll have the opportunity to learn useful classroom expressions in French in addition to some of the basics  that will allow you to continue with confidence into Beginning French 101.

101

Basic communication is introduced as well as essential grammar and phonetics. Appropriate for beginning students with no prior French experience.

101-102

This is a beginning French class designed for highly motivated language learners who have taken French in the past or who had some exposure and need to cover the basics. The class combines True Beginner 101 and Beginner 102 into one term by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into Beginner 103.


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A1 - Beginner

101-102 Accelerated

Core Classes
This is a beginning French class designed for highly motivated language learners and/or those who have taken French in the past or had some exposure and need to cover the basics. The class combines True Beginner 101 and Beginner 102 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into Beginner 103.
Pace: Accelerated

101

Core Classes
Our 101 Core Class is for true beginners wishing to master A1 level. If you studied French before, please look into 101-102 Accelerated class. Défi 1 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughoutthe book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. 
Pace: Regular

102

Core Classes
Our 102 Core Class is for beginners having completed 101 class and wishing to master A1 level. Défi 1 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughoutthe book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. 
Pace: Regular

103-104 Accelerated

Core Classes
This is a beginning French class designed for highly motivated language learners. It combines Beginner 103 and Beginner 104 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into Beginner 105.
Pace: Accelerated

104

Core Classes
Our 104 Core Class is for beginners having completed 103 class and wishing to master A1 level. Défi 1 book offers different thematic units. A variety of societal and cultural themes are presented throughout the book using authentic documents (articles, video and audio clips). Class materials consist from the Student Book and Workbook. 
Pace: Regular

105-106 Accelerated

Core Classes
This is a beginning French class designed for highly motivated language learners. It combines Beginner 105 and Beginner 106 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into Lower Intermediate 201.
Pace: Accelerated

A1 to A2 Bridge

Core Classes
Cross the bridge from A1 to A2 in this transition class where students will gain confidence in their spoken communication skills through review of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation learned in French A1
Pace: Regular

Conversational French for Beginners: Everyday Topics

Minis
Join us for a Beginning French Conversation class designed for learners eager to develop their speaking skills in a supportive environment. In this course, students will explore a selection of everyday themes tailored to the group's level and preferences. Topics may include introductions, family discussions, sports, leisure activities, daily routines, grocery shopping, weather preferences, seasonal clothing, and pets. Participants will engage in interactive activities, group discussions, and role-playing, allowing them to build confidence and fluency in everyday French conversation. Prerequisites: basic French, 103 level or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

French Pronunciation Mastery A1

Specialty & Cultural Classes
Mastering pronunciation is crucial for effective communication in French, especially for beginners at the A1 level. Over the course of 10 weeks, this class focuses on addressing common pronunciation challenges faced by new learners. Led by a seasoned instructor who utilizes paper-based materials and a textbook due to a preference for non-digital teaching methods, sessions will emphasize practical pronunciation exercises and techniques. Students will receive personalized feedback to enhance their spoken French skills, ensuring they gain confidence and clarity in their communication. Primarily taught in English.
Pace: Regular

French Sounds & Spelling Basics

Minis
The Basics of Phonie-Graphie is a course designed to help you master the relationship between French sounds and their written forms. Through practical exercises, you'll learn to improve your pronunciation, identify the unique sounds of French, and understand how these sounds are represented in writing. This course is perfect for learners looking to enhance both their pronunciation and spelling while strengthening their understanding of French phonetic and spelling rules. Prerequisites: basic French, 103 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

Rise and Shine: Mornings in French

Minis
Wake up and smell the croissants with our "Rise and Shine: Mornings in French" class! This early morning adventure will have you chatting about your daily life before your coffee even kicks in. Ever wondered about the daily routine of a zookeeper? Or pondered when a vampire manages to wash the dishes? You’ll get to answer these burning questions and more as we dive into the quirks of morning rituals! With a mix of hilarious discussions and creative activities, you’ll build your French skills while having a blast. So, grab your baguette and join us for a fun start to your day! Prerequisites: Basic French, 103 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

 

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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