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University of Wisconsin-Madison

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Continuing Studies

Summary

Watch this short video about why our online Language program is one of the best in the country!

This practical beginner's course (A1.1), designed by UW-Madison for adult language learners, explores the cultural richness of the Francophone world while helping you master the basics of French. Learn to talk about life, family, work and travel with this popular course.

Our proven communicative approach emphasizes speaking competency while also building skills in listening, reading and writing. This practical course will quickly have you conversing in a relaxed atmosphere. Purchase of digital text required.

Students must register for the $10 "French 1 — Independent Learners," option in Carnegie Mellon's Open Educational Resource, Elementary French 1.

Prerequisite: None.

Course format

You will practice speaking in weekly 30-minute online sessions led by an experienced instructor, with a maximum of 3-6 other participants. To get to know all of your classmates, your conversation time will vary between the first or second 30-minute time slot of the hour you registered for. You should be available for either.

The live online sessions begin one week after the scheduled course start date to allow time to work through the first unit of learning material in preparation for the live conversation practice.

Online course materials introduce new grammar and vocabulary and teach pronunciation, listening, and reading skills through videos, audio and interactive exercises. Budget 3-4 hours a week to work through the online asynchronous content.

Course materials become available online on the scheduled course start date 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.

Sections anticipated for spring 2025 (See Upcoming dates for open sections and more detail): 

Wednesdays, Jan. 8–March 19, 5:30–6:30 p.m. CT

Tuesdays, Feb. 4–April 22, 5:30–6:30 p.m. CT (No virtual conversation on March 25)

Earn Continuing Education Hours

By participating in this class you will earn:

Instructional Hours 35
University of Wisconsin Continuing Education Units 3.5

Explanation of Continuing Education Hours

Upcoming dates (2)

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Program Questions?

Contact Chris Moore at christopher.moore@wisc.edu or 608-262-7389

Registration Questions?

Email registrations@pyle.wisc.edu or call 608-262-2451.

Continuing Studies FAQs

Meet your instructors

Meredith A McKeown

(MA --- National Louis University) has been teaching all levels of French to students in Southeast Wisconsin and the Northern Chicago Suburbs for over 25 years.   With a passion and enthusiasm for French learning, she looks to bring an engaging and welcoming experience for all those looking to improve their communication in French. 

Kathy Rokakis

(M.Ed., Central Michigan University)Kathy Rokakis began her career working for Renault, the French automobile company, for 10 years.  She has spent the last 14 years teaching all levels of high school French.  She enjoys sharing her experiences with the French language and diverse culture of the Francophone world with her students.