Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Portuguese in Houston, TX and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have a few primary options for learning Portuguese interactively in Houston, TX. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your second option 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. 4th and last, you can look for a private Portuguese tutor in Houston, TX. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Houston, TX and online Portuguese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Portuguese and how much should Portuguese tutors ask?
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 lesson hours each semester. Language schools and independent Portuguese tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Portuguese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 17 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, ratings and languages the tutor can teach in. Average student satisfaction for Portuguese lessons on Preply is 4.97 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Portuguese tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Portuguese so difficult and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Portuguese. Realistically, you can gain basic Portuguese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand many sentences, have simple conversations, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and affordable 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 learners.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of 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 actual range of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Portuguese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Portuguese out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Portuguese classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Portuguese teacher?
In learning centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of tested Portuguese tutors with full profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges run classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically offer 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.