Mini Classes - Fall

Mini classes are a perfect opportunity to keep studying French without a long commitment. Each class targets a specific area or theme. Mini classes are offered in a series of 4 weeks, 1h 30 hours per session in October, and a series of 3 weeks, 2 hours per week in December.

Registration for mini classes is now open! REGISTRATION CLOSES 24H BEFORE CLASS BEGINS. Last minute registrations are possible, but please  contact the office at info@afportland.org.

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Session 1: October 20 -November 14

Classes For Beginning Levels

Beginning classes are designed for A1-level students and correspond to the 100 series. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

A1

French for travelers

Planning a trip to a French-speaking country? Master essential travel skills in four mini-lessons! Learn hotel check-ins, metro navigation, ticket purchases, food ordering, and more. Taught predominantly in French with English support as needed. Perfect for beginners with basic French knowledge.

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A1

French Sounds and spelling basics

This engaging  course helps you master the link between French sounds and spelling. Through hands-on exercises, you’ll improve your pronunciation, recognize French sounds, and see how they match written words. Perfect for learners wanting to sharpen both speaking and spelling skills.

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A1

Intro to French communication 

This conversation class starts with a quick grammar and vocabulary refresh, then focuses on speaking practice. With personalized support in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, you’ll build confidence whether preparing for a presentation, a trip, or just improving your conversation skills.

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A1

Grammar workshop

This two part workshop reviews key French verbs and tenses through drills and conversation, using vocabulary from the A1 level. In the first four weeks, you’ll focus on present tense conjugation of regular and common irregular verbs.

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Classes For Lower Intermediate Levels

Lower Intermediate Level classes are designed for A2-level students and correspond to the 200 series. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

A2

Conversation starters 

Strengthen your spoken French through interactive activities, role play, and real-life scenarios. With minimal reliance on written materials, this course helps you build confidence, refine your skills, and enjoy speaking in a supportive environment.

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A2

FOCUS: Past tenses

Master the three essential French past tenses (passé composé, imparfait, passé récent) through engaging stories, songs, and movie clips! Practice activities and conversation skills help you become a pro at this key aspect of French.  


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A2

French flow: dictation practice

La dictée is how the French learn their language—famous for sharpening spelling, grammar, and listening skills. In this 4-week workshop, you’ll improve these areas through dictation exercises and focused discussions on tricky grammar, just like French students do.

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Classes For low Intermediate and Intermediate  Levels

Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class description.


A2/B1

Sounding french 

Master the sounds of French through fun, interactive practice! This workshop tackles pronunciation challenges common to A2-B1 learners, focusing on intonation, rhythm, and connecting written to spoken French.

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Classes For Intermediate  Levels

Intermediate classes are designed for B1-level students and correspond to the 300 series. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.





B1

Learning with dictée

Improve listening comprehension, spelling, and vocabulary like the French do! This 4-week workshop uses dictation activities and targeted discussions to master troublesome spelling, agreement, and conjugation rules while solidifying intermediate grammar. Perfect for refining your written French precision. 

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B1

Everyday french idioms

This fun, hands-on mini-course helps learners master 15–20 common French idioms through interactive activities, role plays, and cultural exploration. Each session introduces new expressions. 


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Classes For Intermediate  and Upper Intermediate Levels

Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions

B1/B2

Les contes de maupassant 

Discover the master of French short stories! Read adapted versions of Maupassant's entertaining tales with surprising twists, engage in discussions, and try creative writing activities. No homework required, but original texts and film adaptations available for extra challenge.

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B1/B2

Les Réalisatrices : – La Nouvelle Nouvelle Vague du Cinéma Français

Explore how today's revolutionary French women directors are transforming cinema! Following pioneers like Alice Guy and Agnès Varda, these filmmakers challenge traditional narratives while addressing complex social issues.

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Classes for
Upper Intermediate and Advanced Levels

Upper Intermediate Classes are designed for B2-level students and correspond to the 300 series. Advanced classes are designed for C1-level students adn correspond to the 400 series. These classes are for B2/C1 -level students, B1 graduates, or current 400-level learners. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

B2/C1

Hidden treasures of france

Discover France's best-kept secrets! Explore charming villages, forgotten castles, and local traditions through engaging stories and stunning visuals. Perfect for upper-intermediate and advanced learners who want to uncover  the authentic France that locals call home. 

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B2/C1

history of wine

Journey through France's renowned wine regions and discover centuries of viticultural tradition! Explore the fascinating origins of wine, its cultural impact on French society, and iconic wines from Champagne to Bordeaux. This multi-session mini-course covers wine history, regional diversity, winemaking evolution, and France's celebrated liqueurs. 

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Session 2: December 1 - December 19, 2025 (Three classes, 2 hours per week)

Unlike our regular Mini Classes, Session 2 courses will meet for 2 hours per week over 3 weeks—for a total of 6 hours.

Session 2 of Mini Classes will include many of the workshops from Session 1, along with our Skill Builder series. To see which Session 1 workshops are being offered again, simply skip to the registration and check the available classes by level.

The Skill Builder series focuses on general French skills, similar to our core classes, and provides a great opportunity to deepen your knowledge at your current level.

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A1 - Beginner

French for Travelers

Minis
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

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

Grammar Workshop

Minis
This four week workshop will review different verbs and tenses every week through drills and conversation while incorporating and recycling vocabulary typically learned in the A1 series. No prerequisite.
Pace: Regular

Intro to French Communication

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. 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
A2 - Lower Intermediate

Conversation Starters

Minis
Build confidence and fluency in everyday French conversations with this interactive A2-level course. Through small group sessions and engaging activities, you'll practice essential conversation skills for real-life situations including personal introductions, daily routines, shopping, making plans, and expressing opinions. By the end of the course, you'll feel confident initiating and maintaining simple conversations in French while having fun in a supportive, encouraging environment. Come ready to speak, laugh, and discover the joy of communicating in French! Prerequisite 106 or equivalent.




Pace: Regular

FOCUS: Past Tenses

Minis
Get ready to master three of the most commonly used past tenses in French- le passé composé, l'imparfait, and le passé récent- through fun and engaging short stories, songs, and movie clips! With tons of practice activities, you'll have plenty of opportunities to become a pro at this unique aspect of the French language while also honing your conversation skills. Don't miss out on this exciting chance to conquer "the past" and take your French to the next level! The continuation of this class will be offered in Session 2 of Mini Classes. Prerequisite 106 or equivalent.

Pace: Regular

French Flow: Dictation Practice

Minis
La dictée is how the French learn French. Considered to be one of the best ways to learn the nuances of spelling and grammar in the French language, it is done by millions of children in French schools every day. In this 4-week workshop, you will improve your listening comprehension skills, spelling, and vocabulary while solidifying your understanding of grammatical points taught in the DEFI method in the same way as the French: through a series of dictation activities and short discussions about some of the most troublesome areas of spelling, agreement, and conjugation. Prerequisites: DEFI 201 or equivalent.
Pace: Regular
A2/B1

Sounding French

Minis
Pronunciation is the key to successful communication in French, and this 4-week workshop concentrates on areas typically troublesome for intermediate learners at the A2 and B1 level. Focus on mastering intonation and rhythm while strengthening the connection between written and spoken French. Through word games, dictations, and tongue twisters, you'll improve your pronunciation and accent while enhancing your listening comprehension and grammar skills. Perfect for building confidence in speaking and understanding authentic French. Prerequisites: A2 level or equivalent.
Pace: Regular
B1 - Intermediate

Learning with Dictée

Minis
In this 4-week workshop, you will improve your listening comprehension skills, spelling, and vocabulary while solidifying your understanding of intermediate grammatical points in the same way as the French: through a series of dictation activities and short discussions about some of the most troublesome areas of spelling, agreement, and conjugation. Prerequisites: DEFI 206 or equivalent
Pace: Regular

Les contes de Maupassant B1/B2

Minis
Considered one of the early masters of the short story form, Guy de Maupassant is famous for his tales depicting the everyday lives and struggles of working French people in the late 19th century. Ranging from comic to tragic and everything in between, his stories are always entertaining and thought-provoking, and often come with a surprising twist. In this literature-focused mini-class, students will read a few adapted versions of Maupassant's works for B1/B2 learners, respond orally to comprehension and discussion questions, and engage in creative writing activities in response to these texts. (There will be no required work outside of class, but students will be provided with the original texts as well as some film adaptations as options to extend the challenge at home.) Prerequisite: one class at B1 level or above (or equivalent).
Pace: Regular

Les Réalisatrices: La Nouvelle Nouvelle Vague du Cinéma Français

Minis
This course explores the revolutionary impact of contemporary French women filmmakers who are transforming the industry and redefining cinematic narratives. You'll discover how directors following in the footsteps of pioneers like Alice Guy and Agnès Varda are challenging traditional male-dominated cinema by reimagining women's representation on screen and boldly addressing complex social issues including abortion, immigration, LGBTQ identity, and domestic violence. Unlike the escapist New Wave of the past, today's women filmmakers create socially reflective cinema that has achieved both popular success and critical recognition at prestigious international film festivals, making this an essential study for understanding the current evolution of French cinema. To learn more about each film click here. Class is open to students at level B1 and above, with the prerequisite of having completed level 303 or possessing an equivalent level. 
Pace: Regular
B1/B2

Everyday French Idioms

Minis
Discover the meaning, usage, and cultural nuances of authentic French expressions involving fruits, vegetables, animals, body parts, and more! This interactive course helps you understand these colorful idioms in different contexts while learning to integrate them naturally into both spoken and written French. Through engaging communicative activities, you'll enrich your vocabulary, improve fluency, and develop deeper cultural understanding that makes your French conversations more authentic and expressive. Perfect for intermediate learners ready to sound more like native speakers. Prerequisites: B1 level or equivalent.
Pace: Regular

Les contes de Maupassant B1/B2

Minis
Considered one of the early masters of the short story form, Guy de Maupassant is famous for his tales depicting the everyday lives and struggles of working French people in the late 19th century. Ranging from comic to tragic and everything in between, his stories are always entertaining and thought-provoking, and often come with a surprising twist. In this literature-focused mini-class, students will read a few adapted versions of Maupassant's works for B1/B2 learners, respond orally to comprehension and discussion questions, and engage in creative writing activities in response to these texts. (There will be no required work outside of class, but students will be provided with the original texts as well as some film adaptations as options to extend the challenge at home.) Prerequisite: one class at B1 level or above (or equivalent).
Pace: Regular

Les Réalisatrices: La Nouvelle Nouvelle Vague du Cinéma Français

Minis
This course explores the revolutionary impact of contemporary French women filmmakers who are transforming the industry and redefining cinematic narratives. You'll discover how directors following in the footsteps of pioneers like Alice Guy and Agnès Varda are challenging traditional male-dominated cinema by reimagining women's representation on screen and boldly addressing complex social issues including abortion, immigration, LGBTQ identity, and domestic violence. Unlike the escapist New Wave of the past, today's women filmmakers create socially reflective cinema that has achieved both popular success and critical recognition at prestigious international film festivals, making this an essential study for understanding the current evolution of French cinema. To learn more about each film click here. Class is open to students at level B1 and above, with the prerequisite of having completed level 303 or possessing an equivalent level. 
Pace: Regular
B2 - Upper Intermediate

Hidden Treasures of France

Minis

Discover France beyond the popular destinations! Join us on a virtual journey to explore charming villages, secret gardens, forgotten castles, and local traditions that most visitors never see. From ancient stone bridges to bustling weekly markets, uncover the authentic France through engaging stories, stunning visuals, and cultural insights. Perfect for intermediate learners ready to expand their vocabulary while falling in love with France's best-kept secrets. Come explore the France that locals call home!
Prerequisite: 306 or equivalent.


Pace: Regular

Les contes de Maupassant B1/B2

Minis
Considered one of the early masters of the short story form, Guy de Maupassant is famous for his tales depicting the everyday lives and struggles of working French people in the late 19th century. Ranging from comic to tragic and everything in between, his stories are always entertaining and thought-provoking, and often come with a surprising twist. In this literature-focused mini-class, students will read a few adapted versions of Maupassant's works for B1/B2 learners, respond orally to comprehension and discussion questions, and engage in creative writing activities in response to these texts. (There will be no required work outside of class, but students will be provided with the original texts as well as some film adaptations as options to extend the challenge at home.) Prerequisite: one class at B1 level or above (or equivalent).
Pace: Regular

Les Réalisatrices: La Nouvelle Nouvelle Vague du Cinéma Français

Minis
This course explores the revolutionary impact of contemporary French women filmmakers who are transforming the industry and redefining cinematic narratives. You'll discover how directors following in the footsteps of pioneers like Alice Guy and Agnès Varda are challenging traditional male-dominated cinema by reimagining women's representation on screen and boldly addressing complex social issues including abortion, immigration, LGBTQ identity, and domestic violence. Unlike the escapist New Wave of the past, today's women filmmakers create socially reflective cinema that has achieved both popular success and critical recognition at prestigious international film festivals, making this an essential study for understanding the current evolution of French cinema. To learn more about each film click here. Class is open to students at level B1 and above, with the prerequisite of having completed level 303 or possessing an equivalent level. 
Pace: Regular

The History of Wine

Minis
Dive into picturesque vineyards and centuries of tradition that have shaped the fascinating history of French wine. This course will take you on a journey through the most renowned wine regions of France, exploring the evolution of viticulture, winemaking techniques, and the cultural impact of wine on French society. You will explore:
-The history of wine, including its fascinating origins.
-The intimate relationship between wine and French culture, encompassing the art of living, the art of the table, and social relations.
-The diverse wine regions of France, as well as those from other parts of the world.
-The great wines and iconic liqueurs, such as Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Calvados, Pastis, Chouchen, and more.
This class is open to students at levels B2 and C1, with the prerequisite of having completed level 306 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
B2/C1

Hidden Treasures of France

Minis

Discover France beyond the popular destinations! Join us on a virtual journey to explore charming villages, secret gardens, forgotten castles, and local traditions that most visitors never see. From ancient stone bridges to bustling weekly markets, uncover the authentic France through engaging stories, stunning visuals, and cultural insights. Perfect for intermediate learners ready to expand their vocabulary while falling in love with France's best-kept secrets. Come explore the France that locals call home!
Prerequisite: 306 or equivalent.


Pace: Regular

Les Réalisatrices: La Nouvelle Nouvelle Vague du Cinéma Français

Minis
This course explores the revolutionary impact of contemporary French women filmmakers who are transforming the industry and redefining cinematic narratives. You'll discover how directors following in the footsteps of pioneers like Alice Guy and Agnès Varda are challenging traditional male-dominated cinema by reimagining women's representation on screen and boldly addressing complex social issues including abortion, immigration, LGBTQ identity, and domestic violence. Unlike the escapist New Wave of the past, today's women filmmakers create socially reflective cinema that has achieved both popular success and critical recognition at prestigious international film festivals, making this an essential study for understanding the current evolution of French cinema. To learn more about each film click here. Class is open to students at level B1 and above, with the prerequisite of having completed level 303 or possessing an equivalent level. 
Pace: Regular

The History of Wine

Minis
Dive into picturesque vineyards and centuries of tradition that have shaped the fascinating history of French wine. This course will take you on a journey through the most renowned wine regions of France, exploring the evolution of viticulture, winemaking techniques, and the cultural impact of wine on French society. You will explore:
-The history of wine, including its fascinating origins.
-The intimate relationship between wine and French culture, encompassing the art of living, the art of the table, and social relations.
-The diverse wine regions of France, as well as those from other parts of the world.
-The great wines and iconic liqueurs, such as Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Calvados, Pastis, Chouchen, and more.
This class is open to students at levels B2 and C1, with the prerequisite of having completed level 306 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
C1 - Advanced

Hidden Treasures of France

Minis

Discover France beyond the popular destinations! Join us on a virtual journey to explore charming villages, secret gardens, forgotten castles, and local traditions that most visitors never see. From ancient stone bridges to bustling weekly markets, uncover the authentic France through engaging stories, stunning visuals, and cultural insights. Perfect for intermediate learners ready to expand their vocabulary while falling in love with France's best-kept secrets. Come explore the France that locals call home!
Prerequisite: 306 or equivalent.


Pace: Regular

Les Réalisatrices: La Nouvelle Nouvelle Vague du Cinéma Français

Minis
This course explores the revolutionary impact of contemporary French women filmmakers who are transforming the industry and redefining cinematic narratives. You'll discover how directors following in the footsteps of pioneers like Alice Guy and Agnès Varda are challenging traditional male-dominated cinema by reimagining women's representation on screen and boldly addressing complex social issues including abortion, immigration, LGBTQ identity, and domestic violence. Unlike the escapist New Wave of the past, today's women filmmakers create socially reflective cinema that has achieved both popular success and critical recognition at prestigious international film festivals, making this an essential study for understanding the current evolution of French cinema. To learn more about each film click here. Class is open to students at level B1 and above, with the prerequisite of having completed level 303 or possessing an equivalent level. 
Pace: Regular

The History of Wine

Minis
Dive into picturesque vineyards and centuries of tradition that have shaped the fascinating history of French wine. This course will take you on a journey through the most renowned wine regions of France, exploring the evolution of viticulture, winemaking techniques, and the cultural impact of wine on French society. You will explore:
-The history of wine, including its fascinating origins.
-The intimate relationship between wine and French culture, encompassing the art of living, the art of the table, and social relations.
-The diverse wine regions of France, as well as those from other parts of the world.
-The great wines and iconic liqueurs, such as Champagne, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Calvados, Pastis, Chouchen, and more.
This class is open to students at levels B2 and C1, with the prerequisite of having completed level 306 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Order This Course

$150.00 USD
Code: 25A Session 1 Minis - Conversation A2 IN-PERSON
Continue strengthening your French communication skills alongside fellow students at your level.

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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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