FAQs

AFCC Classes – Frequenty Asked Questions

  1. How can I tell what level class is right for me?

The outlines on the Class homepage give a rough idea how much prior knowledge or how many hours of previous study are needed to join a class. If you are still not sure, contact one of our teachers for more information, they may arrange to interview you or arrange for you to sit in on a class to judge whether it is suitable.

Felix: (Gosford area): elyseefl@gmail.com or 0466 955 083

Patricia: (Bateau Bay area): tsabatier46@yahoo.com or 4333 6634

  1. How long does it take to gain a working knowledge of French?

Like any new skill, this depends on the time and effort you are prepared to put into your learning. Classes are only one part of this, you also need frequent practice and revision at home. Our classes are generally paced to meet the needs of our students rather than being exam driven. However, your progress from one level to the next really depends on what you can say and understand in French, rather than simply what grammar and vocabulary you have learnt.

As a rough guide, the A1 Beginners course will take 3 – 4 terms of 15-20 hours of class per term. (A1-1; A1-2, A1-3, A1-4) A2 Elementary will require a further 6 – 8 terms; and level B1 Intermediate 8 terms. At the end of this time you should be able to manage everyday practical French in speaking, listening, reading and writing. B2 Intermediate levels continue to build on previous knowledge, while emphasising speaking and listening skills. We examine a wide variety of contemporary topics using different materials from various up to date sources.

  1. What if there is no class suitable for me?

Contact one of our teachers (details at the end of Q.1) and let them know your requirements and preferred class times. We are always happy to start a new group once we have enough people interested. We will keep your details on file for up to one year and let you know if a suitable class is being formed.

  1. If I want to progress faster, what can I do?

In some cases you could arrange to attend more than one class per week, which would give you a greater challenge &/or further revision and practice opportunities.

Private lessons are sometimes available. Discuss this with Viviane or Patricia.

  1. How can I contact the teachers:?

First of all by email via the website or directly to the addresses given at the end of Q.1.

Let them know details of any previous French study, how much, how long ago, level achieved, etc. It is also helpful to know which area you prefer and whether you are available for day or evening classes.

Come to the AFCC Conversation meetings at Erina Leagues Club on the 3rd Saturday of the month from 10am to 12pm. Our teachers are generally there and will be happy to talk to you. You do not have to be a member of the AFCC to attend for the first time but a gold coin donation is appreciated. Membership enrolment details are available at meetings and on the website.

  1. What do I need to bring to class?
  • Apart from one class at Bateau Bay, all our Beginners and Elementary classes (A1 or A2) use the textbook Alter Ego 1+, with a CD Rom. If you are enrolling as a complete beginner in level A1-1 you need only buy the textbook. For all other levels you need the textbook and the workbook (Cahier d’Activités) which gives more practice and revision.

Both textbook and workbook can be ordered through the AF Central Coast website shop.

  • Monday morning class at Bateau Bay currently uses Latitudes 1, but this will probably change in 2016.
  • For higher level classes, check with your teacher about textbooks.
  • As well as the textbook you only need a notebook and a folder to keep any handouts from your teacher. These provide a valuable reference & revision resource so it is useful to keep them all together.
  • If you want to buy a dictionary, there are many available. Look for something that is up-to-date, suitable in size and with print you can read. It is also helpful to check that somewhere in the dictionary there is a list of irregular verb forms (often in the middle or the end of the book). If you already have a dictionary without irregular verbs listed, you may wish to purchase a verb wheel which is another handy device to help your language skills. These are available from your teacher.
  1. Is it compulsory to buy the Activity Book?

Nothing is compulsory, however it is strongly recommended that you do so, especially if you wish to practice at home. It gives more exercises and a CD to listen to other dialogues. You can always start class without it and see how you are going. It is possible to purchase the book later.