Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on French in Dortmund and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 main possibilities for learning French interactively in Dortmund. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, ask about the centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your second resource can be local specialized language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can find a private French tutor in Dortmund. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Dortmund and online French tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn French and what are the ballpark lesson costs for French tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate French course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 1/2 of a hundred lesson hours each semester. Language academies and individual French tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly French tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 22 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and popularity. Average reviews for French lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of French do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and testing, so research each program in advance. With personal French tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is French so challenging and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn French. In reality, you can gain basic French fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand many phrases, be understood when you talk, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of French. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have French tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking French?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in French will necessitate at least 600 hours of active use. The length of time can differ quite a bit depending on your already acquired level of French or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch television, write by hand and online using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in French out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational French classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own French coach?
In language learning academies, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of approved French tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges offer classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically have shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.