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 Actuel 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). Required class materials consist of the Défi Actuel 1 Student Book and Workbook. 
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. Required class materials consist of the Défi Actuel 1 Student Book and Workbook. 
Pace: Accelerated

Our 102 Core Class is for beginners having completed 101 class and wishing to master A1 level. The Défi Actuel 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). Required materials: Défi Actuel 1 Student Book and Workbook.
Pace: Regular

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). Required materials Défi 1 Student Book and Workbook, not available through Alliance Française de Portland.
Pace: Regular

This is a beginner French class designed for highly motivated language learners. It combines Beginner 103 and Beginner 104 into one term, selectively exposing students to the necessary content. Required materials Défi 1 Student Book and Workbook, not available through Alliance Française de Portland.
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). Required materials:  Défi 1 Student Book and Workbook not available through Alliance Française de Portland.
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. Required materials Défi 1 Student Book and Workbook not available through Alliance Française de Portland.
Pace: Accelerated

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 the DEFI A1 sequence.
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, 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. Prerequisite is having completed level 101 or possessing an equivalent level online.
Pace: Regular

This lively and engaging French class uses the Comprehensible Input approach to language acquisition to help beginning French students soak up the language like a sponge, as they become more comfortable understanding commonly used French vocabulary in the context of daily conversations and stories. Perfect for students who would like to jumpstart their immersion learning before beginning their first class, as well as those already studying at the A1 level who would like extra support with their comprehension skills alongside their core courses, this class will use strategies derived from second language acquisition research to make French accessible to all learners. The focus will be first and foremost on picking up essential vocabulary through oral comprehension activities with lots of visual aids, and then putting the learning into practice through guided interaction involving writing, reading, and speaking. Be prepared to put away the textbooks and grammar worksheets for this course, and come ready to move, laugh, use your imagination, and build your confidence in a supportive community of learners. (This class will not require any homework, but ample resources will be provided for those who wish to continue the learning at home.) No prerequisites: Great for pure beginners.
Pace: Regular

This four-week workshop offers a dynamic review of essential French verbs and tenses through a combination of structured drills and guided conversation. Each week, students will reinforce and recycle key vocabulary commonly introduced in the A1 level, helping build both accuracy and confidence in real-life communication. The focus of this session is the present tense, beginning with regular verbs and progressing to commonly used irregular verbs, allowing learners to deepen their understanding while actively using the language in context. No prerequisites.
Pace: Regular

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. 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, 102 level or equivalent
Pace: Regular

A fun, communication-focused introduction to French! Learn useful words and phrases through engaging activities designed to help you start speaking French right away—without focusing on grammar or in-depth explanations. No prerequisites.
Pace: Regular

Build confidence in French through lively dialogues, practical grammar, and engaging communication activities! Using the Grammaire en Dialogues A1/A2 book and its recorded conversations, you'll strengthen your listening, writing, and speaking skills while exploring essential grammar in realistic, everyday situations. Each dialogue helps you understand natural spoken French and apply grammar with greater ease and confidence. Fall term will cover Part 1 of the book. The course covers on average 2 chapters per session, during which students have the opportunity to discuss and apply grammar topics through written activities, conversation and audio comprehension. Prerequisite 105 or equivalent..
Pace: Regular

Build confidence in French through lively dialogues, practical grammar, and engaging communication activities! Using the Grammaire en Dialogues A1/A2 book and its recorded conversations, you'll strengthen your listening, writing, and speaking skills while exploring essential grammar in realistic, everyday situations. Each dialogue helps you understand natural spoken French and apply grammar with greater ease and confidence.

Unlike the online version, this in-person course moves at a slower pace, allowing more time to fully explore each grammar point, practice speaking, ask questions, and build confidence through guided activities and interaction with classmates. Fall term will cover chapters 1-11 of the book Grammaire en Dialogues A1/A2. 

 Prerequiste 105 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

Designed for beginners, this course focuses on improving French pronunciation and spelling. Students will work on mastering the sounds of French, paying attention to tricky consonants, vowels, and silent letters. Through interactive exercises, drills, and practical tips, learners will gain the confidence to pronounce words more accurately and spell them correctly in everyday French. Prerequisite is having completed level 103 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

201 class is the first step for students wishing to master the A2 level. Our A2 level Core Class is for students progressing from A1 level and wishing to master the A2 level.
Défi Actuel 2 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 months (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 months 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 fast-paced class offering an opportunity to advance into lower intermediate level twice as fast as a regular class. The class combines lower intermediate 203 and 204 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into 205. Required materials: Défi 2 student book and workbook.
Pace: Accelerated

This is a fast-paced classed offering an opportunity to advance into lower intermediate level twice as fast as a regular class. The class combines lower intermediate 205 and 206 into one term, by selectively exposing students to the necessary content to continue with confidence into 301. Required materials Défi 2 Student Book and workbook not available through Alliance Française de Portland.
Pace: Accelerated

206 class is the sixth and the last step for students wishing to master the A2 level. Our A2 level Core Class is for students progressing from A1 level and wishing to master the A2 level. Défi 2 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

Ready to start speaking more French? Join us for a fun, supportive conversation class designed for A2-level learners who want to build confidence and become more comfortable speaking French. Explore everyday topics such as family, sports, leisure activities, daily routines, shopping, weather, clothing, and pets. Through games, role-playing, group discussions, and other interactive activities, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice speaking, share your ideas, and connect with others, all while building your confidence in everyday French. Prerequisites: 106 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

Put French grammar into practice! Rather than studying grammar rules in isolation, this course takes an action-based approach: you’ll use grammar to communicate, solve problems, make decisions, and complete real-life tasks in French. Through role-plays, games, and interactive activities, you’ll turn grammar into practical speaking skills and develop more natural, spontaneous communication. Prerequite 204 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

Make your French pronunciation more natural and confident through an action-based approach. Instead of simply studying individual sounds, you’ll practice pronunciation while communicating and completing real-life tasks in French. Through role-plays, interactive activities, and speaking exercises, you’ll work on sounds, rhythm, intonation, and connected speech—and put them into practice right away. Prerequite 204 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

Fall Term: Core Tenses & Sentence Structure - Strengthen your command of the present tense, passé composé, and futur proche while improving question formation and sentence flow. Through practical, event-based activities, students learn to describe daily routines, narrate past experiences, and plan future events with clarity and accuracy. Perfect for learners who want to better understand how French grammar works and use these essential structures more confidently in everyday conversation. Prerequisite 106 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

Get ready for your trip to France with confidence! Learn useful French for making and confirming hotel, transportation, tour, and activity reservations. We’ll also look at how to plan ahead and make the most of your time in France. Along the way, you’ll discover practical tips about French culture, customs, and everyday life to help your trip go smoothly. Taught in French for A2/B1 learners. Prerequisite 203 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

In this lively conversation class for levels A2–B1, we’ll start by reviewing key grammar and vocabulary before moving into engaging speaking practice. With personalized guidance in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, your instructor will help you feel comfortable and confident expressing yourself in French. Whether you’re preparing for a trip, practicing for a presentation, or simply wanting to strengthen your conversational fluency, this class will help you speak with greater ease and assurance.
Pace: Regular

301 class is the first step for students wishing to master the B1 level. Our B1 level Core Class is for students progressing from A2 level and wishing to master the B1 level.
Défi Actuel 3 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 months (You will not have access to Workbook after 12 months 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

The 304 class is the fourth step for students wishing to master the B1 level. Our B1 level Core Class is for students progressing from A2 level and wishing to master the B1 level.

Défi 3 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: paperversion 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. More information about EspaceVirtuel here: https://emdl.us/product-category/digital/espace-virtuel/). Premium books can not be exchanged or refunded.
Pace: Regular

The 306 class is the final step for students wishing to master the B1 level. 
Pace: Regular

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

Chapters 37-42. This class aims to bring your conversational French to the next level. Learn how native speakers communicate on a day-to-day basis. Interaction and exchanges between students are facilitated by theinstructor following weekly thematic topics that include essential vocabulary and grammar. This course is designed with flexibility inmind—each chapter focuses on a distinct topic, so lessons can be taken in any order without requiring prior participation. Open to students who have successfully completed French 205 or equivalent. If you haven’t completed French 205, verify your level on our website under, “Find Your Level”
Pace: Regular

Part 1 of the book. Grammaire en Dialogues presents B1 level grammar concepts through everyday life situations using current spoken French. The course covers on average 2 chapters per session, during which students have the opportunity to discuss and apply grammar topics through written activities, conversation and audio comprehension.
Pace: Regular

In this conversation class, we'll begin by refreshing essential grammar and vocabulary before diving into speaking practice. Our experienced teacher will offer tailored support in grammar, vocabulary, and phonetics to help you feel at ease and enthusiastic about speaking. Whether you're getting ready for a presentation, planning a trip, or simply looking to enhance your conversational skills, this class is designed to help you reach your goals with confidence and ease.
Pace: Regular

Want to make your French sentences clearer and more natural? In this B1-level course, we’ll explore how French sentences are built and how to use word order with confidence. Review the basics of declarative and interrogative sentences, look at simple and complex subjects, practice simple and compound verb tenses, and learn how to use direct and indirect objects. Through practical examples and interactive activities, you’ll strengthen your understanding of French sentence structure and communicate more accurately. Prerequisite 301 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

Join us on Zoom, beginning October 26^th at 12 noon, to discuss 3 French films featuring the French visionary Robert Bresson. Discover a film both thrilling and meditative, focusing on the fascinating theme of escape from prison {Un Condamné à Mort S’Est Échappé); Bresson’s final film, a harrowing yet humane observation of the indifferent, egotistical world (L’Argent); and perhaps Bresson’s most poetic, haunting, personal work – an unsettling vision of human cruelty, folly, and destructive behavior seen through the eyes of a donkey (Au Hasard Balthazar). 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

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

This course explores immigration in France and elsewhere through cinema, from the postwar period to the present day. The films examined offer diverse perspectives on migration, identity, integration, memory, discrimination, and cultural transmission. By studying works by filmmakers from different generations and backgrounds, students will discover how French cinema reflects the social, political, and cultural transformations of contemporary France. Through film screenings, critical readings, and class discussions conducted in French, students will develop their ability to analyze cinematic style, narrative techniques, and historical context while deepening their understanding of the complex issues surrounding immigration and cultural diversity. The course also places these films within broader debates on citizenship, colonial memory, the French suburbs (banlieues), national identity, and multiculturalism.

Note: Students are responsible for obtaining or renting full films if they wish to watch them in entirety; class will feature selected excerpts. Class materials will be shared in Google Classroom. A subscription to the Criterion Channel is a requirement for this course. Prerequisites: 303 or equivalent.
Pace: Accelerated

Want to speak with a rich vocabulary and use idioms and common expressions spontaneously? Learn expressions and idioms from the podcast and participate in the spontaneous lively discussions with the group. This class is based on RFI’s “Le journal en Français Facile”! RFI-FF is a publicly supported nonprofit organisation that’s existed for 23 years and offers a wide range of subjects in its news broadcasts. Visit their website to see the examples of the themes to be covered in class. This class is open to B1 and B2 level students.
Pace: Regular

Meet your fellow literature buffs, read and discuss your reading under expert guidance from Marie-Pierre Wolfe. Marie-Pierre will send you the weekly questionnaire to promote in-depth understanding of each book segment. 
STUDENTS MUST PURCHASE THE BOOK ON THEIR OWN.

The Book: Je suis drôle Auteur : David Foenkinos
Éditions :éditions Gallimard 2026 . 168 pages Synopsis : Gustave a compris une chose essentielle : faire rire, c'est être aimé. Alors, il décide de faire rire tout le monde. Ce sera sa force, son talent, sa politesse envers les autres. Il en fera un métier, puis une identité. Il n'avait pas prévu que ce serait si dangereux. L'auteur :David Foenkinos est l’auteur de nombreux romans, dont « La Délicatesse », « Les Souvenirs » et « Le Mystère Henri Pick », tous trois adaptés au cinéma. Ses livres sont traduits en quarante langues.Son roman « Charlotte » a reçu le prix Renaudot et le prix Goncourt des Lycéens 2014. .

RETURNING STUDENTS ONLY. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN THIS CLASS AS A NEW STUDENT, PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE FIRST.

Pace: Regular

In this course, we will discuss 5 texts from the theme Enquêtes Policières, then 5 texts from Expérience de l’autre/ découverte de l’inconnu, in Littérature Progressive de la Francophonie niveau B1/B2, 2020.

Prerequisite required: 206 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

Do you want to improve your conversational skills? Reported speech is an essential tool in French for talking about what someone else has said, whether you’re sharing a past conversation, discussing a movie, or talking about a radio program or podcast. Learn how to report questions, statements, and information while using the correct tenses and grammatical changes.
Let’s review the rules and practice together so you can feel more confident using reported speech in conversation. Prerequisite 301 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

401 class is the first step for students wishing to master B2 level. Défi Actuel 4 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

Crimes, Power & State Secrets: French History on Trial
Over ten weeks, explore more than two centuries of French history through some of its most fascinating criminal and political cases: the Affair of the Diamond Necklace and Marie-Antoinette, the Dreyfus Affair and Zola’s famous “J’Accuse!”, the mysterious Seznec case, hidden secrets of the Fifth Republic, and landmark battles over justice, tolerance, and the death penalty. Through investigations, historical documents, and lively discussions, discover how these events reveal France’s complex relationship with power, justice, and national identity.
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. Prerequisite: 306 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

Part 1. 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 and weaknesses before jumping to next level. The class has a double goal: preparing you to DELF exam structure and work on all of the aspects one needs to master in order to validate a level to successfully start the next one. A partial simulation of the DELF exam (except oral production part) in the end of the 10-week series will allow students to have a comprehensive evaluation of their skills. 
Pace: Regular

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

Crimes, Power & State Secrets: French History on Trial
Over ten weeks, explore more than two centuries of French history through some of its most fascinating criminal and political cases: the Affair of the Diamond Necklace and Marie-Antoinette, the Dreyfus Affair and Zola’s famous “J’Accuse!”, the mysterious Seznec case, hidden secrets of the Fifth Republic, and landmark battles over justice, tolerance, and the death penalty. Through investigations, historical documents, and lively discussions, discover how these events reveal France’s complex relationship with power, justice, and national identity.
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. Prerequisite: 306 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

This advanced French course offers a comprehensive overview of French civilization, combining geographical, historical, social and cultural knowledge. The curriculum focuses on understanding French history and French society today as well as exploring cultural achievements in science, literature, architecture and performing arts. This term covers a selection of topics chosen from the various thematic sections of the “Atlas Insolite de Culture Générale” (Cartomania France, 2021, Editions de la Martinière). This non-sequential class can be joined at any time, allowing you to study chapters in any order. NO BOOK IS REQUIRED FOR THIS CLASS. Prerequisite 404 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

Chapters 30-36. This class aims to teach you how to communicate like a native French person. Add useful expressions, proverbs and even alittle slang to your existing French skills! Interaction and exchanges between students are facilitated by the instructor following weeklythematic topics that include essential vocabulary and grammar. Each chapter focuses on a distinct topic, so lessons can be taken in any order without requiring prior participation.  Prerequisites: Successful completion of DEFI 306 B1 level or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

This C1 level Core Class is for students with the B2 level who are working on mastering the C1 level. The Défi 5 textbook offers different thematic units with a variety of societal and cultural themes.
Pace: Regular

Crimes, Power & State Secrets: French History on Trial
Over ten weeks, explore more than two centuries of French history through some of its most fascinating criminal and political cases: the Affair of the Diamond Necklace and Marie-Antoinette, the Dreyfus Affair and Zola’s famous “J’Accuse!”, the mysterious Seznec case, hidden secrets of the Fifth Republic, and landmark battles over justice, tolerance, and the death penalty. Through investigations, historical documents, and lively discussions, discover how these events reveal France’s complex relationship with power, justice, and national identity.
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. Prerequisite: 306 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

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