Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my French in Evanston, IL and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 principal choices for learning French interactively in Evanston, IL. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your other possibility can be local for-profit language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Finally, you can opt for a private French tutor in Evanston, IL. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Evanston, IL 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 as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for 1/2 of a hundred lesson hours each semester. Language schools and private French tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey French tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 22 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and student demand. Real student rating average for French lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much French do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal French tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is French so hard and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
Formal 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 a few hours a week you will be able to understand everyday phrases, express yourself, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of French. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have French tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking 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 active use. The amount of time can differ quite a bit depending on your existing level of French or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch television, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in French out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational French classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right French teacher?
In learning centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of verified French tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges typically structure 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, 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.