Basic French Course
A practical, beginner-friendly introduction to spoken and written French, focused on everyday communication, pronunciation, and basic grammar. Learners will build confidence to hold simple conversations, read short texts, and continue self-study.
- Language
- English
- Duration
- 4
- Certificate
- Included
About this course
What you will learn
- Pronounce basic French sounds and the alphabet.
- Introduce yourself and ask/answer simple questions (name, origin, occupation).
- Use common greetings and polite expressions.
- Count from 0–100 and tell simple times and dates.
- Use basic present-tense verbs (être, avoir, aller, faire) in simple sentences.
- Order food, ask for directions, and handle simple shopping interactions.
- Read short, simple French texts and understand key information.
- Prepare a plan for continued independent study.
Requirements
- Device with internet access and audio playback
- A text editor or notebook for practice
- Willingness to practice speaking aloud
Course curriculum
1. Getting Started: Alphabet and Pronunciation
- French alphabet and letter sounds Text · Required
- Pronunciation practice: key sounds Assignment · Required
2. Greetings, Introductions, and Politeness
- Common greetings and formal vs informal speech Text · Required
- Role-play assignment: Introduce yourself Assignment · Required
- Practice dialogue: meeting someone Text · Required
3. Numbers, Dates, and Time
- Counting 0–100 and ordinal basics Text · Required
- Telling time and saying dates Text · Required
- Practice assignment: schedule and appointment Assignment · Required
4. Essential Verbs: être, avoir, aller, faire
- Conjugation and common uses Text · Required
- Guided drills: make sentences Assignment · Required
5. Nouns, Articles, Gender, and Basic Adjectives
- Gender and articles (le, la, un, une) Text · Required
- Adjective agreement and placement Text · Required
- Practice assignment: describe photos Assignment · Required
6. Everyday Conversations: Shopping, Directions, and Restaurants
- Shopping and asking prices Text · Required
- Asking for and giving directions Text · Required
- Role-play assignment: ordering at a café Assignment · Required
7. Building Short Conversations and Listening Skills
- Common question words and conversation flow Text · Required
- Listening practice: short audio excerpts Assignment · Required
8. Reading Short Texts and Writing Simple Messages
- Reading practice: short notices and messages Text · Required
- Writing task: a short postcard or email Assignment · Required
9. Cultural Notes and Practical Tips
- French cultural norms and polite behavior Text · Required
- Practical travel phrases and safety tips Text · Required
10. Next Steps: Study Plan and Resources
- Putting it all together: a personalized study plan Text · Required
- Final assignment: 2–3 minute spoken presentation Assignment · Required
- Course wrap-up and optional certificate guidance Text · Required
Course details
Absolute beginners or self-taught learners who want a structured entry into spoken and written French for travel, work, or personal interest.
Format: self paced
Duration: 4
Level:
3–5 hours per week
Included resources
- Printable French alphabet chart (PDF)
- Basic verbs cheat-sheet (PDF)
- Common phrases and greetings list (PDF)
- Practice dialogue scripts (text)
- Suggested reading list for beginners
Learner reviews
No published reviews yet.
Additional information
This course focuses on practical communication and foundational grammar. Administrators should attach audio recordings and schedule live speaking sessions where possible to enhance outcomes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need prior knowledge of French?
No. This course is designed for absolute beginners.
How will I practice speaking if the course is self-paced?
Each chapter includes guided speaking prompts and suggested partner or self-practice activities. You can also use the suggested resources to find audio material or arrange live practice sessions.
Are recordings provided?
The course includes recommended audio-guided pronunciation activities. Administrators can attach or link audio files when deploying the course.
Can I get feedback on my spoken French?
Assignments include rubrics for self-assessment and optional peer or instructor feedback. Live sessions are recommended for spoken feedback; schedule details should be set by the administrator.