Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Portuguese in Gatineau and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have 4 key opportunities for learning Portuguese interactively in Gatineau. 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 better priced.) Your 2nd option 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 Portuguese tutor in Gatineau. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Gatineau and online Portuguese tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Portuguese and what do Portuguese tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate Portuguese course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of 45-48 course hours each semester. Language schools and individual Portuguese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Portuguese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 17 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and popularity. Customer review average for Portuguese lessons on Preply is 4.96 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Portuguese do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and graded tasks, so research each program in advance. With personal Portuguese tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Portuguese so hard and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal 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 common words, speak on some level, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Portuguese. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Portuguese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Portuguese?
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 Portuguese will require at least 600 hours of dedication. The required duration of time can differ quite a bit depending on your existing level of Portuguese or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, try typing using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Portuguese out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Portuguese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Portuguese coach?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, of course! The largest selection of pre-screened Portuguese tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually offer classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically give 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.