Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn French in Ames, IA and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have 4 key options for learning French interactively in Ames, IA. 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 cheaper.) Your other option can be local for-profit language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can look for a private French tutor in Ames, IA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Ames, IA and online French tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn French and what does a lesson with a tutor of French cost?
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 price of about 50 class hours each semester. Language academies and private French tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable French tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 22 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, experience 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. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and testing, so research the details 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 teaching children or teens, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is French not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
One-size-fits-all 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand most phrases, speak on some level, 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 affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of French. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have French tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to learn French?
Some people 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 actual range of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of French or knowledge of other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, try typing 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 this is not easy you can also take conversational French classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own French teacher?
In language centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, of course! The largest selection of verified French tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges as a rule offer classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.