Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn German in Rapid City, SD and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have four key choices for learning German interactively in Rapid City, SD. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are better priced.) Your 2nd resource can be local specialized language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can opt for a private German tutor in Rapid City, SD. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Rapid City, SD and online German tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn German and what are the ballpark lesson costs for German tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate German course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of about 50 class hours each semester. Language centers and independent German tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced German tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 29 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and specialization. Average student satisfaction for German lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much German 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. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and exams, so research each program in advance. With personal German tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea 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 those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is German so difficult 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 German. In reality, you can gain basic German fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand most phrases, be understood when you talk, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of German. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have German tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to master German?
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 German will demand at least 600 hours of study. The amount of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of German or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in German out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational German classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right German instructor?
In language centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, always! The largest selection of tested German tutors with extensive profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges usually run classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools usually give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.