Learn the French basics with listening, speaking, reading and writing activities. French 1 covers introductions, numbers, cities and likes and dislikes. Textbook required: Alter Ego 1.

Prerequisite: None.

Course format

Instructional videos and interactive online materials in the Canvas course platform introduce new grammar and vocabulary and teach pronunciation, listening and reading skills. Participants should budget 3-4 hours a week to work through the online asynchronous materials in preparation for the live online conversation groups. Participants practice speaking live with the instructor in small groups of 3-6 students in 30-minute weekly sessions. Groups will vary weekly, so participants should be available for the entire one-hour time slot. Online course materials are available one week before the first live conversation class and remain accessible for one month after the course ends.

Find out if this is the right level for you with these placement tests: French 1 self-placement test, French 2 self-placement test.

Want to know more about learning a language online? Read Dr. Julie Dahl's blog post about our online course format.

The required textbook is sold by many online vendors. Make sure to look for ISBN number 9782011558107.  It is generally available on Amazon and at MEP Education. 

Sessions are anticipated for spring 2023 (See Upcoming dates for open sections and more detail):

Tuesdays, Jan. 31–April 25, 5:30–6:30 p.m. CT (No virtual conversation session on March 14)

Tuesdays, Jan. 31–April 25, 6:45–7:45 p.m. CT (No virtual conversation session on March 14)

Mondays, Feb. 20–May 15, 5:45–6:45 p.m. CT (No virtual conversation on March 13)