Mini Classes

Mini classes are a perfect opportunity to keep studying French without a long commitment. Each class targets a specific area or theme. Mini classes are offered in a series of 4 weeks, 1h 30 hours per session. 

Registration for winter mini classes is now open. REGISTRATION CLOSES 24H BEFORE CLASS BEGINS. Last minute registrations are possible, but please  contact the office at info@afportland.org.

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Fall Mini Classes: February-March 2025

Classes For Beginning Level

Beginning classes are designed for A1-level students and correspond to the 100 series. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

A1

French for travelers

Traveling to a French-speaking country? Join our "French for Travelers" mini lessons to master key skills in French with English support.

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A1

Mastering French Sentences: Nouns, Verbs and Structure

Master essential French grammar—nouns, verbs, and sentence structure—while building clear and engaging sentences. 

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Classes For Beginning To Lower Intermediate Level

The mixed-level class A1/A2 is designed for students finishing A1 or starting A2. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

A1/A2

The Essentials of Grammar

This course helps students improve their French language skills through observation and reflection on grammar in everyday communicative situations, catering to those looking to enhance their abilities or planning to move to a French-speaking country.

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A1/A2

Pronunciation and Spelling

This beginner course improves French pronunciation and spelling, focusing on sounds, tricky consonants, vowels, and silent letters. Interactive exercises help build confidence in accurate pronunciation and spelling.



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A2

Moliere

Explore Molière’s life and works, including Tartuffe and Le Misanthrope, while enhancing reading, vocabulary, and conversational skills. Focus on 17th-century France's cultural context and Molière's impact.

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Classes For Lower Intermediate To High Intermediate Level

A2-level students can join Lower Intermediate Classes. The mixed-level class A2/B1 is designed for students finishing A2 or starting B1. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

A2/B1

French at Work: Building Vocabulary with TV5 Monde

Expand your work-related French vocabulary through TV5 Monde’s Mon métier, c’est en français series. Learn key terms and expressions for professional settings.

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A2+

Paris par Arrondissement

Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. 

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Classes For Intermediate To High Intermediate Level

These classes are for B1-level students, A2 graduates, or current 300-level learners. Classes are designated B1 or B1/B2, with specific prerequisites for each class. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

B1

Gender and Sexuality in Contemporary French

This course explores how language in French society reflects and shapes views on gender and sexuality, with a focus on inclusive language and its influence on identity.

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B1/B2

Réformes Sociales et Économiques en France

Explore France's social and economic reforms, including labor laws, social security, and education, while discussing their impact on society and the economy. 

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Mixed Level Classes For Intermediate, High Inter-mediate and Advanced Levels

These mixed-level cultural classes are for students between upper intermediate and advanced levels. Find prerequisites, read full class description, and register by clicking "Read More" in the class descriptions.

B1+

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Discuss four impactful films addressing socio-political issues: Pontecorvo’s The Battle of Algiers, Godard’s La Chinoise, Denis’ White Material, and Melville’s Army of Shadows. Watch the films before each session and deepen your understanding of their historical and cultural contexts.

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B1+

Renaissance Painters

Explore Renaissance art and artists like da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, while improving French vocabulary related to art and culture. Discuss masterpieces and their societal impact.

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B1+

Histoire de France: La Révolution

Explore the French Revolution’s causes, events, and key figures while improving your ability to discuss history in French. Enhance vocabulary through readings, discussions, and multimedia.

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B2/C1

Cinéma of Paris: The City and Its Protagonists

Explore how iconic French films use Paris as a central character, shaping stories and emotions. Practice advanced French through film clips, script excerpts, and discussions. 

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A1 - Beginner

French for Travelers

Minis
Planning a trip to a French-speaking country but concerned about navigating the language barrier? Join our four "French for Travelers" mini lessons and master essential skills like hotel check-ins, using the metro, purchasing tickets, reserving tours, ordering food, and taking the train. This course is designed for beginners with basic French knowledge and will be predominantly taught in French, with English as needed. Prerequisite is having completed level 101 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Mastering French Sentences: Nouns, Verbs and Structure

Minis
Focus on the essential elements of French grammar, including nouns, verbs, and sentence structure. You will deepen your understanding of how French sentences are constructed. Special attention is given to the relationship between subject and verb, proper noun usage, and how to build sentences that are both grammatically correct and stylistically engaging. Open to students at level A1, with no prerequisite.
Pace: Regular
A1/A2

Pronunciation and Spelling

Minis
Designed for beginners, this course focuses on improving French pronunciation and spelling. Students will work on mastering the sounds of French, paying attention to tricky consonants, vowels, and silent letters. Through interactive exercises, drills, and practical tips, learners will gain the confidence to pronounce words more accurately and spell them correctly in everyday French. Prerequisite is having completed level 103 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

The Essentials of Grammar

Minis
The Essentials of Grammar is for students who are learning French as a foreign language and want to improve their knowledge of the language, or for those who want to move to France or a French-speaking country. This mini-course will help you discover grammar through observation and reflection. The lessons are based on communicative situations from everyday life. Prerequisite is having completed level 103 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
A2 - Lower Intermediate

Molière

Minis
Explore the life and works of Molière, one of France’s most celebrated playwrights. Through excerpts from his comedies, such as Tartuffe and Le Misanthrope, discover the cultural and historical context of 17th-century France. The class focuses on reading comprehension, vocabulary building, and conversational skills, highlighting Molière’s enduring influence on French theater. Open to students at level A2, with the prerequisite of having completed level 106 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Paris par Arrondissement

Minis
Back by popular demand! Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! Discover the charming neighborhoods of this beautiful city. In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. Your teacher Melody, who lives in Paris, will serve as your enthusiastic tour guide and suggest walking routes. The course content can be modified based on student input. This mixed-level class welcomes students from lower-intermediate to advanced levels.
Pace: Regular
A2/B1

French at Work: Building Vocabulary with TV5 Monde

Minis
Expand your work-related vocabulary using videos and activities from the TV5 Monde series "Mon métier, c'est en français". Through everyday scenes from various professions, learn common expressions and terms used in professional settings. Perfect for A2/B1 levels, this workshop offers a great opportunity to strengthen work-related vocabulary and gain essential language skills for communicating in a professional context in French. Prerequisite is having completed Level 204 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Paris par Arrondissement

Minis
Back by popular demand! Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! Discover the charming neighborhoods of this beautiful city. In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. Your teacher Melody, who lives in Paris, will serve as your enthusiastic tour guide and suggest walking routes. The course content can be modified based on student input. This mixed-level class welcomes students from lower-intermediate to advanced levels.
Pace: Regular
B1 - Intermediate

Gender and Sexuality in Contemporary French

Minis
This course explores the evolving landscape of language in French society, addressing questions such as the appropriateness of terms like "mademoiselle" and "pédé," the use of gendered language like "le" or "la" médecin, and the understanding of concepts like bisexuality and non-binary identities. Through four sessions, we delve into how language reflects and shapes perceptions of gender and sexuality, examining the emergence of inclusive language and its impact on personal identity. Participants gain insights into the nuances brought by gender and sexuality studies to the French language, empowering them to make informed choices about language usage in their reading, listening, writing, and speaking endeavors. Prerequisite is having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.

Pace: Regular

Histoire de France: La Révolution

Minis
This course explores the French Revolution, a pivotal event in France's history. Students will examine the causes, major events, and key figures involved, while developing their ability to discuss historical topics in French. Through readings, discussions, and multimedia materials, learners will enrich their vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of how the revolution shaped modern France. This class is open to students at level B+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Paris par Arrondissement

Minis
Back by popular demand! Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! Discover the charming neighborhoods of this beautiful city. In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. Your teacher Melody, who lives in Paris, will serve as your enthusiastic tour guide and suggest walking routes. The course content can be modified based on student input. This mixed-level class welcomes students from lower-intermediate to advanced levels.
Pace: Regular

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Minis
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times. Discover Gillo Pontecorvo’s haunting portrayal of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule; Jean-Luc Godard’s dark comedy focusing on a group of students who have embraced Maoist ideals and strive to incite revolution through terrorist violence; Claire Denis’ gripping evocation of the colonialist mindset in Francophone Africa, spotlighting the brilliant Isabelle Huppert as a woman pushed to the edge; Jean-Pierre Melville’s atmospheric tour de force following the story of a band of resistance fighters living under German-controlled France. You will be expected to see the four films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Renaissance Painters

Minis
In this class, students will explore the art and history of Renaissance painters, focusing on renowned figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Students will improve their French vocabulary related to art, painting techniques, and cultural context, while discussing masterpieces and their impact on both art and society during the Renaissance period. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
B1/B2

Histoire de France: La Révolution

Minis
This course explores the French Revolution, a pivotal event in France's history. Students will examine the causes, major events, and key figures involved, while developing their ability to discuss historical topics in French. Through readings, discussions, and multimedia materials, learners will enrich their vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of how the revolution shaped modern France. This class is open to students at level B+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Paris par Arrondissement

Minis
Back by popular demand! Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! Discover the charming neighborhoods of this beautiful city. In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. Your teacher Melody, who lives in Paris, will serve as your enthusiastic tour guide and suggest walking routes. The course content can be modified based on student input. This mixed-level class welcomes students from lower-intermediate to advanced levels.
Pace: Regular

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Minis
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times. Discover Gillo Pontecorvo’s haunting portrayal of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule; Jean-Luc Godard’s dark comedy focusing on a group of students who have embraced Maoist ideals and strive to incite revolution through terrorist violence; Claire Denis’ gripping evocation of the colonialist mindset in Francophone Africa, spotlighting the brilliant Isabelle Huppert as a woman pushed to the edge; Jean-Pierre Melville’s atmospheric tour de force following the story of a band of resistance fighters living under German-controlled France. You will be expected to see the four films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Renaissance Painters

Minis
In this class, students will explore the art and history of Renaissance painters, focusing on renowned figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Students will improve their French vocabulary related to art, painting techniques, and cultural context, while discussing masterpieces and their impact on both art and society during the Renaissance period. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Réformes Sociales et Économiques en France

Minis
Develop an understanding of the social and economic reforms that have shaped modern France, including labor laws, social security, and educational policies. Engage in discussions about current debates surrounding these reforms, while improving your ability to express complex ideas in French. Encourages critical thinking about the impact of these reforms on French society and economy. Prerequisite is having completed level 301 or possessing an equivalent level.

Pace: Regular
B2 - Lower Advanced

Histoire de France: La Révolution

Minis
This course explores the French Revolution, a pivotal event in France's history. Students will examine the causes, major events, and key figures involved, while developing their ability to discuss historical topics in French. Through readings, discussions, and multimedia materials, learners will enrich their vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of how the revolution shaped modern France. This class is open to students at level B+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Paris par Arrondissement

Minis
Back by popular demand! Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! Discover the charming neighborhoods of this beautiful city. In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. Your teacher Melody, who lives in Paris, will serve as your enthusiastic tour guide and suggest walking routes. The course content can be modified based on student input. This mixed-level class welcomes students from lower-intermediate to advanced levels.
Pace: Regular

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Minis
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times. Discover Gillo Pontecorvo’s haunting portrayal of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule; Jean-Luc Godard’s dark comedy focusing on a group of students who have embraced Maoist ideals and strive to incite revolution through terrorist violence; Claire Denis’ gripping evocation of the colonialist mindset in Francophone Africa, spotlighting the brilliant Isabelle Huppert as a woman pushed to the edge; Jean-Pierre Melville’s atmospheric tour de force following the story of a band of resistance fighters living under German-controlled France. You will be expected to see the four films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Renaissance Painters

Minis
In this class, students will explore the art and history of Renaissance painters, focusing on renowned figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Students will improve their French vocabulary related to art, painting techniques, and cultural context, while discussing masterpieces and their impact on both art and society during the Renaissance period. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
B2/C1

Cinéma of Paris: The City and Its Protagonists

Minis
Explore how iconic French films portray Paris as more than a backdrop, but as a central character shaping storylines, emotions, and atmosphere. By engaging with film clips, script excerpts, and lively discussions, you will practice advanced French language skills in a rich cultural context. Ideal for French cinema fans or curious language learners, this class immerses you in Paris's magic while refining your French skills. Prerequisite is having completed level 401 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Histoire de France: La Révolution

Minis
This course explores the French Revolution, a pivotal event in France's history. Students will examine the causes, major events, and key figures involved, while developing their ability to discuss historical topics in French. Through readings, discussions, and multimedia materials, learners will enrich their vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of how the revolution shaped modern France. This class is open to students at level B+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Paris par Arrondissement

Minis
Back by popular demand! Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! Discover the charming neighborhoods of this beautiful city. In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. Your teacher Melody, who lives in Paris, will serve as your enthusiastic tour guide and suggest walking routes. The course content can be modified based on student input. This mixed-level class welcomes students from lower-intermediate to advanced levels.
Pace: Regular

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Minis
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times. Discover Gillo Pontecorvo’s haunting portrayal of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule; Jean-Luc Godard’s dark comedy focusing on a group of students who have embraced Maoist ideals and strive to incite revolution through terrorist violence; Claire Denis’ gripping evocation of the colonialist mindset in Francophone Africa, spotlighting the brilliant Isabelle Huppert as a woman pushed to the edge; Jean-Pierre Melville’s atmospheric tour de force following the story of a band of resistance fighters living under German-controlled France. You will be expected to see the four films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Renaissance Painters

Minis
In this class, students will explore the art and history of Renaissance painters, focusing on renowned figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Students will improve their French vocabulary related to art, painting techniques, and cultural context, while discussing masterpieces and their impact on both art and society during the Renaissance period. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
C1 - Advanced

Histoire de France: La Révolution

Minis
This course explores the French Revolution, a pivotal event in France's history. Students will examine the causes, major events, and key figures involved, while developing their ability to discuss historical topics in French. Through readings, discussions, and multimedia materials, learners will enrich their vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of how the revolution shaped modern France. This class is open to students at level B+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Paris par Arrondissement

Minis
Back by popular demand! Travel to the famed City of Lights from the comfort of your own home! Discover the charming neighborhoods of this beautiful city. In each session, we will explore an arrondissement or two and learn about its main attractions, including museums, monuments, parks, recommended restaurants, and more. Your teacher Melody, who lives in Paris, will serve as your enthusiastic tour guide and suggest walking routes. The course content can be modified based on student input. This mixed-level class welcomes students from lower-intermediate to advanced levels.
Pace: Regular

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Minis
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times. Discover Gillo Pontecorvo’s haunting portrayal of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule; Jean-Luc Godard’s dark comedy focusing on a group of students who have embraced Maoist ideals and strive to incite revolution through terrorist violence; Claire Denis’ gripping evocation of the colonialist mindset in Francophone Africa, spotlighting the brilliant Isabelle Huppert as a woman pushed to the edge; Jean-Pierre Melville’s atmospheric tour de force following the story of a band of resistance fighters living under German-controlled France. You will be expected to see the four films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Renaissance Painters

Minis
In this class, students will explore the art and history of Renaissance painters, focusing on renowned figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Students will improve their French vocabulary related to art, painting techniques, and cultural context, while discussing masterpieces and their impact on both art and society during the Renaissance period. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
In English

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Minis
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times. Discover Gillo Pontecorvo’s haunting portrayal of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule; Jean-Luc Godard’s dark comedy focusing on a group of students who have embraced Maoist ideals and strive to incite revolution through terrorist violence; Claire Denis’ gripping evocation of the colonialist mindset in Francophone Africa, spotlighting the brilliant Isabelle Huppert as a woman pushed to the edge; Jean-Pierre Melville’s atmospheric tour de force following the story of a band of resistance fighters living under German-controlled France. You will be expected to see the four films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular
In French

Cinéma of Paris: The City and Its Protagonists

Minis
Explore how iconic French films portray Paris as more than a backdrop, but as a central character shaping storylines, emotions, and atmosphere. By engaging with film clips, script excerpts, and lively discussions, you will practice advanced French language skills in a rich cultural context. Ideal for French cinema fans or curious language learners, this class immerses you in Paris's magic while refining your French skills. Prerequisite is having completed level 401 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Quand le Cinéma Fait de la Politique

Minis
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times. Discover Gillo Pontecorvo’s haunting portrayal of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule; Jean-Luc Godard’s dark comedy focusing on a group of students who have embraced Maoist ideals and strive to incite revolution through terrorist violence; Claire Denis’ gripping evocation of the colonialist mindset in Francophone Africa, spotlighting the brilliant Isabelle Huppert as a woman pushed to the edge; Jean-Pierre Melville’s atmospheric tour de force following the story of a band of resistance fighters living under German-controlled France. You will be expected to see the four films on your own before each discussion. They are all available on Amazon Prime with English subtitles for a nominal rental fee. This class is open to students at level B1+, with the prerequisite of having completed level 206 or possessing an equivalent level.
Pace: Regular

Order This Course

$150.00 USD
Code: 25H Mini Cinéma Politique
In this thought -provoking class you will discuss 4 films which address and reflect upon the pressing socio-political issues of their times.

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PARKING

Street parking on SW 20th St. facing the Kamm House is limited. Free parking is available in Lot A at SW 18th and SW Columbia. Please obtain a parking pass from the office. After 6 pm weekdays, students may park in the Willamette Dental lot at SW 20th and SW Jefferson as available.

OFFICE HOURS

The Alliance office is open 10am-3pm Monday through Friday.
Call us at 503.223.8388 during business hours or leave a message.
Email us at  info@afportland.org.

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