Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my French in Allentown, PA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have four key opportunities for learning French interactively in Allentown, PA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your other spource can be local for-profit language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can choose a private French tutor in Allentown, PA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Allentown, PA 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 ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for about 50 class hours each semester. Language centers and individual French tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable French tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 22 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, availability and student demand. Real student rating average for French lessons on Preply is 4.92 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 to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume 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 extras they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is French not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn French. As proven by others before, you can gain basic French fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand most words, have simple conversations, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of French. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have French tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of French?
Some people seem to have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in French will require at least 600 hours of practice. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of French or proficiency in 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, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in French out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational French classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right French coach?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of pre-screened French tutors with extensive profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges typically structure classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically have shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.