Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Portuguese in Seattle, WA and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with apps, you have several primary options for learning Portuguese interactively in Seattle, WA. 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 a little more affordable.) Your 2nd possibility can be local specialized 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. Fourth, you can find a private Portuguese tutor in Seattle, WA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Seattle, WA and online Portuguese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Portuguese and what does a lesson with a tutor of Portuguese cost?
For university and college courses you can estimate Portuguese course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for about 50 class hours each semester. Language centers and independent Portuguese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual 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 location, ratings and popularity. Real student rating average for Portuguese lessons on Preply is 4.97 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 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 volume and testing, so research each program in advance. With personal Portuguese tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Portuguese so challenging and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Portuguese. In reality, 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 most expressions, be understood when you talk, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Portuguese. After acquiring 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 master 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 demand at least 600 hours of dedication. The actual range of time can differ quite a bit depending on your available 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 news and movies, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Portuguese out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Portuguese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Portuguese coach?
In language centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, certainly! The largest selection of pre-screened Portuguese tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges usually offer classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools as a rule 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.