Online Classes

We offer Portuguese classes for kids, teens and adults. Our method was created by François Gouin and enhanced by the famous British educator Charlotte Mason.

In other words, our approach is basically oral, we believe students should learn a second language the same way they learn their own native tongue. First, through the ears (listening skills); then, the mouth (speaking); followed by the eyes (reading) and hands (writing).

What language aspects are taught to a baby? Not grammar, for sure. We talk to babies, we also sing and read to them. After months being exposed to these inputs, it is expected to hear from babies their first words. This is the first language milestone we normally expect from a person, years before teaching how to read or to write. This is the approach we pursue in our Portuguese classes, we aim to build confident speakers before start opening grammar books.

Other important concerning in our sessions is the understanding of our students. We don’t want them merely repeating words they are not familiar with. The learning process is more effective when the language is understood. This is why our teachers also speak English during the classes. Our method is not translation-based, however, English is used as a bridge to help our students to speak Portuguese confidently from day 1.

We study the language through Gouin series. These series basically describe everyday actions from beginning to end. Imagine you are going to read a book, for instance. List the needed steps. First, you need to take it. Then, you open and read it. You might also need to turn the page few times and, after a while, you put it away. It's a very simple action, but it involves different verbs.

Since the series are about everyday life, they are simple to memorize. Our students learn the series in English and then, once they have understood the meanings, we teach them in Portuguese. This way they are not only saying Portuguese words, but they know exactly what those words and sentences mean.

Once the students are familiar with different series, they start internalizing patterns of the language (how the verbs end, for example, which is the beginning of grammar study) and also learning how to ask questions about the actions described. In short, our students learn the words and verbs and also how to use them in real life situations.

The oral approach also helps to reach an excellent pronunciation. Usually, when students read a word and don't know how to pronounce it, they tend to use the letter sounds (phonics) of their own mother tongue, the result of this routine  is frequently a poor pronunciation. Our students however are encouraged to read words only after they have learnt how to pronounce them well, using the appropriate letter sounds and intonation.

We also incorporate Charlotte Mason's principles to the learning process by using poetry, literature, and songs. Instead of lengthy lectures, our classes are inspired by living ideas. That's why we call this program "Português Vivo", which means "Living Portuguese". Our aim is to offer our students a cultural immersion through rich learning opportunities. For example, we celebrate Brazilian holidays elaborating special  classes in order to promote a further connexion between the students and the cultural aspects of the language.

Our lessons are also short (30 minutes) and frequent (2 or 3 times a week). This gives our students the opportunity to train the habit of full attention while increasing their exposure to the new language. We study 3 terms during the year and have some breaks in summer, winter and after each term's exam week. Our calendar is attached to this email, we recommend checking it for further information.

For our intermediate and advanced students, we offer immersive classes in which our students learn Science, Geography and Art Appreciation through Portuguese, besides Grammar and Literature. There's also a Book Club for advanced and fluent students to discuss books through the Socratic approach. The teacher leads the discussion by asking questions and helping students learn how to think for themselves as they pursue the Truth. 

Our teachers will be glad to help your family to speak Portuguese fluently and confidently!

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