French Language Courses

French Language Courses

  • The International Swiss School has designed French Language Courses to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience and gain a diploma in French Language proficiency. The program of language courses is divided into term courses, standard courses, and intensive courses to cater to students at different levels (from beginners to advanced learners) developing their proficiency in the French Language. The faculty staff conducts a small interview session with each student during registration to examine their level and advise the applicants in choosing the right course. Each course is designed for a small group of students (6-8 individuals per batch) to ensure all of them get enough attention from the professors and understand the learning material completely. The curriculum is specifically designed to provide a structured progression covering essential linguistic components (vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills). The International Swiss School utilizes a variety of teaching methods to engage students and foster their language acquisition. Interactive activities, role-playing exercises, group discussions, multimedia resources, and authentic materials are integrated into the curriculum to create an immersive learning environment. Students are encouraged to actively participate in class and practice their language skills through real-life scenarios to enhance their confidence and fluency in French.

  • Six Months French Program

    The Six Months French Program is designed by the International Swiss School for students dedicated to studying French full-time. The program is divided into 3 terms with a duration of 40 days each. TERM 1 covers Beginner A1 and Elementary A2 levels of French based on CEFRL (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). The curriculum focuses on all essential linguistic components – vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The teaching technique involves a number of exercises and workshops. After finishing the first term, students take Internal Class Test to examine their knowledge and upgrade to the next level. TERM 1 of the Six Months French Program at the International Swiss School prepares students for successful passing of DELF A1 and A2 levels.

    TERM 2 covers the B1 level of French from the CEFRL. By the end of the second term of the Six Months French Program, students of the International Swiss School are able to freely read books and have a sufficient level of knowledge in grammar and vocabulary to develop argumentation skills. To upgrade to the next level students take Internal Class Test. TERM 2 of the Six Months French Program at the International Swiss School prepares students for successful passing of DELF B1. TERM 3 covers the Upper Intermediate B2 level of French based on the CEFRL. Except for linguistic components, the curriculum focus on learning about the actuality of studying French, and the historical, cultural, economic, and social aspects of French-speaking regions. Students at the International Swiss School get acquainted with the relations between verb tenses and logical thinking. By the end of the third term, students take the Internal Class test and exam preparation for DELF B2.

    Course Details

    TERM 1 TERM 2 TERM 3
    • covers Beginner A1 and Elementary A2 level of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • all the essential linguistic components are covered including the basics of grammar
    • Internal Class Test is taken to upgrade to the next TERM
    • exam preparation for DELF A1 and A2
    • covers Itermariate B1 level of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • prepare students to freely read books, teach about tenses, and strengthen grammar and vocabulary to develop argumentation skills
    • Internal Class Test is taken to upgrade to the next TERM
    • exam preparation for DELF B1
    • covers Upper Intermediate B2 level of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • the curriculum focuses on the history and actuality of the French language, the cultural, economic, and social features of French-speaking regions, relations between verb tenses, and logical thinking
    • Internal Class Test is taken by the end of the course
    • exam preparation for DELF B2

    Program Schedule

    TERMS DURATION&TIME Intakes FEES
    TERM 1 40 days – 20 hours/week
    Monday to Friday
    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 2’000*
    TERM 2 40 days – 20 hours/week
    Monday to Friday
    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 2’000*
    TERM 3 40 days – 20 hours/week
    Monday to Friday
    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 2’000*
    Total: CHF 6’000*

    *Students are obligated to pay the fees at the beginning of each term.

  • Twelve Months French Program

    The 12 Months French Program at the International Swiss School is applicable for students dedicated to studying French full-time and gaining a sufficient level of French proficiency to gain DELF/DALF Diplomas. TERM 1 covers Beginner level A1 of French based on the CEFRL. The curriculum focuses on the essential linguistic components – vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The first term of the 12 Months French Program prepares students for DELF A1. To upgrade to the next term students of the International Swiss School take Internal Class Test. TERM 2 of the 12 Months French Program covers Elementary level A2 of French based on the CEFRL. Upon completion of the second term, students at the International Swiss School possess the ability to read books effortlessly and possess an adequate understanding of grammar and vocabulary, enabling them to enhance their argumentation skills. In order to progress to the subsequent level, students are required to undergo an Internal Class Test. The second term of the 12 Months French Program prepares students for DELF A2. TERM 3 of the French language program covers Intermediate level B1 of French based on the CEFRL. In addition to linguistic aspects, the curriculum of the International Swiss School places emphasis on gaining knowledge about the current state of studying French, and the historical, cultural, economic, and social dimensions of French-speaking regions. Students become familiar with the connections between verb tenses and logical reasoning. The third term of the 12 Months French Program prepares for the DELF B1.

    The TERM 4 of the 12 Months French Program covers Upper Intermediate Level B2 of French based on the CEFRL. In the fourth term, students at the International Swiss School enhance their linguistic proficiency, focusing on complex vocabulary, grammar structures, pronunciation, reading comprehension, writing skills, listening comprehension, and speaking abilities. The curriculum includes exploring literature, cultural topics, and current affairs related to French-speaking regions. To upgrade to the next level, students of the International Swiss School take Internal Class Test. The fourth term prepares students for the DELF B2. TERM 5 of the 12 Months French Program covers Advanced level C1 of French from the CEFRL. The curriculum includes refining language skills, with an emphasis on advanced vocabulary, grammar nuances, idiomatic expressions, and refined pronunciation. Students explore cultural, historical, and contemporary aspects of French-speaking regions. TERM 4 prepares students of the International Swiss School for DALF C1. TERM 6 of the 12 Months French Program covers Master level C2 of French based on the CEFRL. During the sixth term, students fine-tune their language skills to an advanced and nuanced level, with a strong focus on precision, fluency, and sophistication in their usage of French. The curriculum includes intensive reading of complex texts, engaging in high-level debates and discussions, advanced writing tasks, and thorough exploration of the cultural, artistic, and intellectual dimensions of French-speaking regions. TERM 6 of the 12 Months French Program prepares students for DALF C2.

    Course Details

    TERM 1 TERM 2 TERM 3
    • covers Beginner A1 level of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • all the essential linguistic components are covered including the
      basics of grammar
    • Internal Class Test is taken to upgrade to the next TERM
    • exam preparation for DELF A1
    • covers Elementary A2 level of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • prepare students to freely read books, teach about tenses, and
      strengthen grammar and vocabulary to develop argumentation skills
    • Internal Class Test is taken to upgrade to the next TERM
    • exam preparation for DELF A2
    • covers Intermediate B1 level of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • the curriculum focuses on the history and actuality of the French
      language, the cultural, economic, and social features of
      French-speaking regions, relations between verb tenses, and
      logical thinking
    • Internal Class Test is taken to upgrade to the next TERM
    • exam preparation for DELF B1
    TERM 4 TERM 5 TERM 6
    • covers Upper Intermediate level B2 of French according to the
      CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • all the essential linguistic components are covered including the
      basics of grammar
    • Internal Class Test is taken to upgrade to the next TERM
    • exam preparation for DELF B2
    • covers Advanced level C1 of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • prepare students to freely read books, teach about tenses, and
      strengthen grammar and vocabulary to develop argumentation skills
    • Internal Class Test is taken to upgrade to the next TERM
    • exam preparation for DALF C1
    • covers Master level C2 of French according to the CEFRL
    • teaching techniques include a number of exercises and workshops
    • the curriculum focuses on the history and actuality of the French
      language, the cultural, economic, and social features of
      French-speaking regions, relations between verb tenses, and
      logical thinking
    • Internal Class Test is taken by the end of the course
    • exam preparation for DALF C2

    Program Schedule

    TERMS DURATION&TIME Intakes FEES
    TERM 1 40 days – 20 hours/week

    Monday to Friday

    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 1’500*
    TERM 2 40 days – 20 hours/week

    Monday to Friday

    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 1’500*
    TERM 3 40 days – 20 hours/week

    Monday to Friday

    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 1’500*
    TERM 4 40 days – 20 hours/week

    Monday to Friday

    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 1’500*
    TERM 5 40 days – 20 hours/week

    Monday to Friday

    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 1’500*
    TERM 6 40 days – 20 hours/week

    Monday to Friday

    8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

    June 2024 – November 2024 CHF 1’500*
    Total: CHF 9’000*

    *Students are obligated to pay the fees at the beginning of each term.

  • Standard Courses of the French Program

    Standard Courses of the French Program at the International Swiss School are designed for students learning French as a part-time program or willing to upgrade their levels of proficiency. The faculty staff conducts a small interview session during registration to examine their level and advise the applicants in choosing the right course. The Standard Courses of the French Program at the International Swiss School cater to Swiss students of all levels from A1 to C2 according to the CEFRL. The courses aim to provide a comprehensive set of language skills and establish a solid foundation in French language proficiency for Swiss students. The curriculum of the Standard French Course at the International Swiss School covers all crucial aspects of language learning, ensuring a well-rounded approach to acquiring the language. The four key language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) are given equal importance, enabling students to develop proficiency in each area.

    Program Schedule

    Standard Courses of the French Program
    4 Weeks Course 12 Weeks Course
    Duration 4 hours/week

    Morning: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM

    or

    Evening: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

    Duration 4 hours/week

    Morning: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM

    or

    Evening: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

    Fee CHF 1’300* Fee CHF 1’000*
    Start Dates June 2024, July 2024, August 2024 Start Dates June 2024, July 2024, August 2024

    *Students are obligated to pay the fees at the beginning of each term.

  • Summer Intense Courses of French Program

    The International Swiss School provides Summer Intense Courses in French Program as a part-time program, aiming to facilitate rapid progress within a condensed timeframe. The intensive courses cater to individuals with specific language goals to develop their French skills quickly. The curriculum of the Summer Intense Course covers a comprehensive range of language components, enabling students to make significant advancements in a shorter duration. Designed to create a focused and rigorous learning environment, the course maximizes language acquisition opportunities. The International Swiss School covers all essential language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) with a particular emphasis on fostering fluency and accuracy. The learning environment of the Summer Intense Courses is dynamic and demanding, encouraging students to actively engage with the language and practice intensively. The course includes additional study hours, homework assignments, and supplementary practice materials to provide students with ample opportunities to reinforce their learning.

    Program Schedule

    Summer Intense Courses in French Proficiency
    4 Weeks Course 12 Weeks Course
    Duration 20 hours/week (Monday to Friday)

    Morning: 8:30 AM to 12:30 AM

    Duration p>20 hours/week (Monday to Friday)

    Morning: 8:30 AM to 12:30 AM

    Fee CHF 1’500* Fee CHF 3’000*
    Start Dates June 2024, July 2024, August 2024 Start Dates June 2024, July 2024, August 2024

    *The students are obligated to pay the fee at the beginning of the course.

  • Language Proficiency Certification

    Recognizing the significance of language proficiency certification, the International Swiss School places great emphasis on supporting students in showcasing their French language skills and enhancing their career prospects. One of the main aims of the French language courses offered at the university is the successful passing of internationally recognized language proficiency exams the DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) and DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française). The certifications serve as official validations of students’ French language proficiency at different levels and carry substantial weight in the global job market.

    At the International Swiss School, the French Language Course aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in language mastery certifications. The curriculum is meticulously aligned with the requirements of the DELF and DALF exams, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all essential language components, including grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, listening comprehension, speaking, and writing. The courses’ content is thoughtfully designed to facilitate a progressive learning journey, allowing students to develop their language proficiency in a systematic manner. To ensure students are well-prepared and confident to face the official exams, the International Swiss School integrates various forms of assessment and support throughout the educational process. Mock exams provide students with the opportunity to simulate the exam environment, enabling them to familiarize themselves with the format, time constraints, and expectations. Practice exercises allow students to refine their language skills and address any areas of weakness. Targeted feedback from experienced instructors provides valuable insights and guidance for further improvement.

    By obtaining the DELF or DALF certifications, students at the International Swiss School demonstrate a high level of French language competency, significantly enhancing their employment prospects, further education opportunities, and overall mobility in the global community. Employers across various industries highly value international certifications as they serve as tangible evidence of a student’s language proficiency and cultural competence. The certifications open doors to a wide range of career opportunities with required strong French language skills (hospitality, tourism, international relations, and business sectors).

    The language proficiency certification pathway provides a tangible measure of achievement and validates the hard work and dedication invested by students in mastering the French language. It serves as a recognized credential to reflect their commitment to language learning and their ability to effectively communicate in French. Obtaining internationally recognized certification oflanguage proficiency enhances students’ employability and fosters a sense of personal fulfillment and confidence in their language abilities. At the International Swiss School, students receive comprehensive support and guidance throughout their language-learning journey. The dedicated instructors employ effective teaching methodologies, interactive learning activities, and engaging resources to create an immersive and dynamic learning environment. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, students develop their language proficiency and their cultural understanding and appreciation for the French language and Francophone cultures.

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