Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Portuguese in Des Moines, WA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have four principal options for learning Portuguese interactively in Des Moines, WA. 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 resource can be local private language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can look for a private Portuguese tutor in Des Moines, WA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Des Moines, WA and online Portuguese tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Portuguese and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Portuguese tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Portuguese course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for about 50 course hours each semester. Language centers and individual Portuguese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced Portuguese tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 17 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, positive reviews and languages the tutor can teach in. Customer review average for Portuguese lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Portuguese do I need to know 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 level and graded tasks, so research those in advance. With personal Portuguese tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Portuguese so challenging and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Portuguese. According to experts, you can gain basic Portuguese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand many expressions, express yourself, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Portuguese. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Portuguese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to master Portuguese?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Portuguese will demand at least 600 hours of active use. The amount of time can differ significantly depending on your current level of Portuguese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, write by hand and online using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Portuguese out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Portuguese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Portuguese tutor?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, of course! The largest selection of verified Portuguese tutors with full profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges as a rule offer classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically offer 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.