Course content & levels

Our courses are built around the needs of learners, according to the European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Four skills are covered in each level: listening, reading, speaking and writing.
This dynamic program covers a wide range of subjects, and favors a linguistic approach based on communication and play. Students are encouraged to act and interact in French, whatever their level.

A1

Level A1 in French corresponds to a beginner's level, where the learner acquires the essential basics of the language. At this stage, the learner becomes familiar with simple words and short sentences, enabling him or her to communicate in very basic everyday situations.

In French, at A1 level, you'll learn to introduce yourself, and talk about yourself, your family and those around you. Basic notions such as greetings, numbers, colors and everyday objects are explored. Grammar at this level includes simple structures such as verbs in the present tense, definite and indefinite articles, and personal pronouns.

Oral and written comprehension and expression skills are gradually developed. We practice understanding simple announcements and short instructions, and writing small texts such as personal messages or simple notes.

Overall, level A1 is a crucial initial stage where the learner becomes familiar with the sound, basic vocabulary and first structures of the French language. It's an exciting stage, because it's where everything begins on the journey towards mastery of this beautiful language.

A2

Level A2 in French represents a stage after the beginner's level (A1) where learners begin to consolidate their basic knowledge and broaden their language skills. At this stage, we deepen the knowledge acquired at the previous level, while exploring new concepts to better interact in everyday situations.

At A2 level, we continue to develop vocabulary by exploring more varied themes such as leisure, travel, work and so on. Sentences become a little more complex, and we learn to express simple opinions on familiar topics. Grammar is enriched with the introduction of new verb tenses (such as passé composé), adverbs, prepositions and complementary pronouns.

As far as communication skills are concerned, the focus is on listening to simple dialogues, announcements and everyday conversations. In writing, we begin to draft more elaborate texts, such as personal e-mails or simple descriptions.

Overall, level A2 represents a phase in which learners strengthen their linguistic foundations and familiarize themselves with more complex concepts, while continuing to progress towards more fluent, autonomous communication in French.

B1

At level B1 in French, the intermediate stage is reached, where language learning becomes more advanced. At this stage, the learner begins to feel more at ease communicating in a variety of everyday and professional situations, even if this still requires some support.

At B1 level, vocabulary is considerably enriched, and more complex subjects such as society, culture, health, the media, etc. are covered. We learn to argue, express opinions and debate on familiar subjects. Grammar becomes more elaborate, with mastery of new verb tenses, subordinates and nuances of language.

As far as comprehension is concerned, progress is made in the ability to understand longer discussions, radio broadcasts or simple press articles. Oral and written expression becomes more precise and fluent, enabling you to write more detailed texts and take part in more complex conversations.

All in all, level B1 marks a significant advance in mastery of the French language. Learners feel more comfortable interacting in a wider range of situations, and begin to acquire a certain autonomy in their use of the language.

B2

At level B2 in French, learners reach an advanced stage where they are able to communicate much more fluently and precisely. At this level, the language is mastered to a degree that enables more sophisticated interaction in a variety of personal, professional and academic contexts.

At level B2, vocabulary is further enriched, covering more complex and specialized topics. Topics include politics, economics, literature and more. Grammar becomes more subtle, with advanced use of verb tenses, grammatical subtleties and a better understanding of the nuances of the language.

Oral and written comprehension at this level enables the learner to grasp longer, more complex content, such as speeches, TV programs or in-depth press articles. Oral and written expression is more refined, enabling the writing of structured texts, essays and active participation in complex debates and discussions.

Overall, level B2 represents advanced competence in French. Learners are able to communicate independently and fluently, understand a wide variety of texts and express themselves with ease in most situations. It's a level that opens the door to more advanced academic, professional and cultural opportunities in the French language.

C1

At level C1 in French, the learner reaches a level of advanced competence, very close to complete mastery of the language. At this stage, communication is highly sophisticated and precise, enabling nuanced and complex expression on a wide range of topics.

At C1 level, vocabulary is very extensive, covering a wide range of specialized topics. Complex subjects such as philosophy, science, international politics, etc. are explored. Mastery of grammar is advanced, with fluent and precise use of verb tenses, grammatical structures and a fine understanding of linguistic nuances.

Oral and written comprehension is highly developed, enabling you to grasp long, complex speeches, academic presentations, debates and in-depth literary texts. Oral and written expression comes almost naturally, enabling us to adapt to different language registers, write complex texts and argumentative essays, and participate actively in demanding academic or professional discussions.

In short, level C1 represents a high degree of proficiency in French. Learners at this level are able to express themselves with ease, precision and nuance in a wide variety of contexts, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the language and its associated culture. This level opens the door to advanced academic and professional opportunities in the French-speaking world.

C2

At level C2 in French, the learner achieves the highest degree of linguistic competence. This level represents an almost complete mastery of the language, enabling virtually native communication in all contexts, whether academic, professional or social.

At C2 level, vocabulary is extremely extensive and varied, covering highly specialized topics. Grammar is virtually perfect, with fluent and precise use of verb tenses, the most complex grammatical structures and a deep understanding of linguistic subtleties.

Oral and written comprehension is highly advanced, enabling understanding of highly complex speeches, academic lectures, specialized debates and dense literary texts. Oral and written expression is highly refined, enabling the learner to adapt to any language register, to produce elaborate texts and in-depth analyses, and to participate proactively in high-level discussions.

In short, level C2 represents near-native mastery of French. People who have reached this level are able to express themselves with an ease, precision and linguistic richness comparable to that of native speakers. It is the highest level of linguistic competence and opens the door to the most advanced opportunities in academic, professional and cultural fields in the French language.

Welcome to the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole

The mission of the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole is to promote knowledge of the French language and French and Francophone cultures.

Find out more

Facade of the Hauts-de-Francs Chamber of Commerce

Headlines

Nov 29, 2024

Guided tour of the Raphaël exhibition at the Beaux-Arts in Lille

Lille's Palais des Beaux-Arts reveals for the first time its entire priceless Raphael collection: 43 original graphic works, including 37 drawings by the great Italian master (1483-1520).

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Nov 22, 2024

Guided tour of General de Gaulle's birthplace

Located in the heart of Lille, Charles de Gaulle's birthplace offers a fascinating insight into the childhood and family history of one of France's greatest statesmen.

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Oct 1, 2024

The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole takes part in the Défi Inter-Alliances 2024!

On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole enthusiastically took part in the Défi Inter-Alliances 2024, held at the Fondation des Alliances Françaises in Paris.

Language training tailored to your needs

Communicative and active learning
Certified and experienced teachers
Progression in line with CEFR

The advantages of the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole

The BlaBla Café is a workshop where the emphasis is on oral practice.

Practice speaking

Blabla Cafés

Blabla Cafés are conversation forums, entirely in French, aimed primarily at our learners. They enable you to discuss and debate a wide range of topics, helping to improve your oral expression.

Every week, three groups meet at lunchtime: A2 on Tuesdays, B1 and B2/C1 on Thursdays.

You are not yet a member of the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole but would like to attend the Blabla Cafés?

Visit to the Catholic University of Lille.

Knowing your environment

Cultural outings

Visits to the emblematic sites of the Lille Metropole (Regional Headquarters, Gare Saint Sauveur, Musée de la Piscine...), discovery of local customs (cooking workshops, tastings...) or walks, we do everything to ensure that you practice your French in a friendly, multicultural context.

Cultural visits take place every Friday afternoon (except during the summer session).

If you are not yet registered with the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole but would like to take part, please contact us!

Find out more about cultural outings

Our exams and trainings

International recognition (DELF / DALF)
Professional assets (CLOE certification)
Accurate assessment of your level

DELF and DALF

Find out more about exams

Professional certification (CLOE)

Find out more about certification

DELF or DALF preparation courses

How do you prepare?

Our training courses for FLE professionals

Acquire a teaching methodology
Improve your teaching practices
Discover innovative solutions

The DAEFLE

Teaching French as a foreign language

Pedagogical observations

Immersion in reality

Professional training

Strengthen your skills

A few words from our students

I find the atmosphere at the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole very friendly, and all the teachers are very attentive to our needs. What's more, the cultural visits on Fridays are really enriching!

Petra KULLOVÁ (Slovakia)

Daytime group courses

I started private lessons with very specific expectations and Victoria has helped me achieve my goals. She always gives 120% and the course was very structured. I've learned a lot thanks to the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole, and my level of French has only improved!

Greyson CHOO (Malaysia)

Private classes

For me, the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole courses have been very useful. Being with other students in a group motivates me to learn and participate! The courses are well structured and the teachers' explanations very clear. Special mention to Caroline for her patience!

Nikita GUBANOV (Russia)

Evening group courses

The Alliance Française de Lille Métropole has been an ideal place for me to improve my French. All the teachers I've had here are patient and encouraging. They teach in a fun, relaxed atmosphere that is conducive to learning. The office staff are always friendly, welcoming and know their students well. I'm grateful for my time at the Alliance and the friendships I've made!

Kristina WILSON (United States)

Daytime group courses

Frequently asked questions

When do group classes start?

To find out when our sessions will take place, check out the dates of our group course sessions.

How many learners are there in each class?

Our classes have between 6 (minimum) and 12 (maximum) students.

Can I come directly to the Alliance Française de Lille Métropole for information?

If you'd like to visit us for information, please note that the reception desk is open to the public from Monday to Thursday, 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and on Fridays, 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm.

Do you offer courses for children and/or teenagers?

No, we do not offer group courses for children or teenagers. The minimum age for group courses at Alliance Française de Lille Métropole is 18. However, we can offer individual courses (please contact us).

Consult the FAQ

A1

A2

B1

B2

C1

C2