Blakely Language Services

What order should I do the classes  in?

 There is no right or wrong "first class",  but most people tend to do the courses in order of  difficulty (see below), depending on their starting level.  The French Test Prep is specifically designed to help people get ready for their French Proficiency Test, and the Online Grammar  Class is  for anyone who  wants to work on written French (grammar).   The Test Prep and Grammar Class are suitable for all levels. 

What should I bring with me to class?

You will receive many pages of handouts and worksheets throughout the program, so it is a good idea to bring a binder or folder to store your work in. A pen or pencil and a highlighter are also good ideas.

If you choose to purchase a French-English dictionary, I would recommend dictionaries published by Larousse, Robert-Collins, Barron's, Oxford, etc. but you are not obligated to buy one. If you are interested in buying a verb book (this is not required either) I would recommend the Big Blue Book of French Verbs or the 501 French Verbs book - both easy to use and have lots of great information besides just the verbs you are conjugating! The Big Blue Book even has an interactive CD with verb conjugation activities to help you practice on your own.

Please note that currently, we are not offering our classes in person (as of March 2020) due to Covid restrictions. the information regarding the classroom environment (below) is not applicaple at this time.

Snacks and beverages (coffee, water, etc.) are encouraged! Please be aware that this is a NUT-FREE and SCENT-FREE  environment - the classroom is in use all day by children at Bliss Carman Middle School, and we don't want to jeopardize their health and safety by bringing these products into their learning environment. 

Do I have to register in advance?

In order to participate in our online classes , you MUST register and pay in advance.  Please visit our REGISTRATION PAGE in order to do this. 

If you decide at the last minute that you would like to attend, please keep in mind that if the class is already full, you may have to wait until the next session starts. If there is room, however, you are welcome to join the class! Registration fees can be paid in advance or the first night of your program.

I am very nervous about learning French - do I have to speak in front of the class?

Many people starting to learn a second language will tell you that they were very nervous when they started, especially if they found French difficult while they were in school, or if they don't think they remember any of it.

These classes are designed for people who are starting at the beginning - and activities are designed to be fun, non-threatening and will help boost your confidence. You will enjoy your class time and you will feel very comfortable speaking in front of the group when you are done! It's up to you to decide how much you need to speak - some people prefer to listen, and that's ok.

Will I be bilingual when I finish the six weeks?

It is impossible to become bilingual in a short, part-time programs such as these. Your progress depends on several factors: previous experience, your confidence, and the amount of time and effort you are able to put into class time as well as the days between classes...however, former students will tell you that is is definitely time well spent in these classes! Each student progresses at a different pace - but EVERYONE improves!

Do I have to do homework?

Homework is provided by request - if you want to do extra work, it will happily be provided. Work will be corrected and you will receive feedback as to your strengths and areas for improvement. Doing additional work (homework) is your choice - it is not required to participate in the programs.

I am more advanced than the average beginner...do you offer more challenging courses?

Yes, we do! We also have the Test Prep Class, the Online Grammar Class and private tutoring- these are designed to take you to the next level of language learning - please read the course descriptions for more information.

As well, advanced language training is offered as custom training (either private sessions or small groups). Please email or call for more information!

I was not available to start in this program - when will your next one be held?

For your convenience, new start dates are available year-round. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to add their name to our website mailing list and/or LIKE the Blakely Language Services Facebook Page - it will help keep you informed! Please let me know if you would like me to add your name to the class list for one of these programs.

Still have a Question?

If you still have an unanswered question regarding a course, service, what skill level you feel you might fall into or anything else that might be on your mind, please fill out the form and you will receive a response promptly.

If you are an employer or individual looking for custom language training (for groups or individuals), please describe what type of training you would like to do and we can offer suggestions as to how to make your custom program work.