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.
