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:
We teach French using the full immersion method.
Not ready for immersion? Take a 5-week " 100: Introduction to French Immersion 101" class, led in English, to prepare for
Beginning 101, the first full immersion class. This is an optional step and class is taught mainly in English.
You may choose core classes to begin French studies. Your fist step should be 101 class.
Do you have some time on your hands and would like to progress faster? Or have you studied French a while ago and want to go
back to it? Then consider an Accelerated Pace class and finish a level twice as fast as in a regularly paced class. Start
with 101-102 Accelerated. Please note: This class is open exclusively to individuals with previous experience in French and
some basic understanding of the language. If you are a true beginner, please choose 101 class.
Beginner Classes (except 100: Introduction to French Immersion 101) are taught in 10-week modules.
Beginning A1 level classes go from 101 to 106.
All of our teachers are native fluent and trained to teach French as a second language.
Depending on programs available, beginners may have access to workshops, mini classes, or seasonal specials.
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.
Have you been thinking of taking the leap into learning French but are apprehensive of the immersive learning style or feel you might
benefit from some extra foundation before starting our 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 of the language that will
allow you to continue with confidence into Beginning French 101.
Pace: Regular
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
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. Two options are offered:
paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 months (You
will not have access to Workbook after 12 months unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. Moreinformation about Espace
Virtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular
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
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
Our 103 Core Class is for beginners having completed 102 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. Twooptions are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student
Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuelfor 12 month (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 month unless you renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here:
https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged orrefunded.
Pace: Regular
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. Two options are offered: paper version of both, or Premium Bundle with paper Student
Book and digital Workbook accessible through Espace Virtuel for 12 month (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 month unless you
renew the subscription directly with the editor. More information about Espace Virtuel here:
https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular
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
Our 105 Core Class is for beginners having completed 104 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
Our 106 class is the sixth and the last step for students wishing to master the 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
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
Planning a trip to a French-speaking country but concerned about navigating the language barrier? Join our four "French for Travelers" mini
lessons and master essential skills like hotel check-ins, using the metro, purchasing tickets, reserving tours, ordering food, and taking
the train. This course is designed for beginners with basic French knowledge and will be predominantly taught in French, with English as
needed.
Pace: Regular
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
If you feel you need more review with foundational grammar but prefer interaction and learning through media to lectures and textbooks, this
class could be a perfect fit for you! Learn or review essential grammatical concepts for beginners/advanced beginners through authentic
songs, readings, video clips, and games in this engaging mini-class. Topics covered may include pronouns, articles, prepositions, forming
questions, present tense, passé composé and futur proche. Reading, writing, speaking and listening will be a part of every lesson. This
class is for those who are midway through or have recently completed A1 level (prerequisite 102 or equivalent level)
Pace: Regular
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.
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.