Language Level requirements

The French in the Dordogne immersion week is not suitable for beginners. You need to be at least elementary level to join the course.

To help get an idea of your level of French please look at the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) grid, you need to be able to tick all of A1, and at least two of A2 as a start point.

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment is a guideline used to describe achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe and, increasingly, in other countries across the globe. Its main aim is to provide a method of learning, teaching and assessing which applies to all languages in Europe. The six reference levels A1 to C2 are becoming widely accepted as the European standard for grading an individual's language proficiency.

Briefly our language brackets at French in the Dordogne are as follows, though of course there are no strict boundaries as individual language skills vary according to personal experience. These simple definitions are designed to help you understand if the course is for you. You should then complete the diagnostic self-assessment form and return this to us (LINK TO QUESTIONNAIRE).

Elementary

A1 acquired, A2 in progress as defined by CEFR. You can use simple phrases and understand the essential points of a conversation when spoken clearly. You can use the past, present and future tenses of the most common verbs.

Intermediate

A2 to B2 as defined by CEFR You are able to understand a conversation and written texts. You can express yourself in familiar situations and you have a certain command of grammar.

Advanced level

B2 to C1 as defined by CEFR. You can express yourself quite well in whatever situation you find yourself in. You have a good command of grammar and a relatively wide range of vocabulary.

So please judge which levels you are for five areas of your language: listening,reading,spoken interaction, spoken production and writing  and send this to us

Then we need you to complete a questionnaire, and return it to use before booking your course.

In addition , after spending your first day immersed in the language and before the week’s lessons start, there will be a simple assessment by way of conversation and a short dictation. This is to ensure you are in the group that will best help you progress with pupils who have a similar level to yourself

If your French is ‘rusty’, then we suggest any time you can spend brushing it up before the course will help you make the most of the week.

If you have any queries, do please get in touch with us direct on contact us page