FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different levels?
According to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) the different levels of language proficiency are the following:
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Beginner levels A1 and A2
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Intermediate levels B1 and B2
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Advanced levels C1 and C2
You can read more about what you can do when you reach each level, for example, in the Dutch language.
Is it possible to do the course on a fast – track basis and complete within two months?
If you are a strongly motivated student and willing to study around 10 hours per week, according to the F.A.S.T. learning method guidelines, then it might be possible to reach B1 level in two months. You will be receiving more educational material than usual and the course will be even more intense.
After all, the initiator of the teaching method, professor Olivier Delhaye, AUTH, helped his students reach B2 level in three months. We, at Language and Motivation, extended the teaching/learning period to make more people capable of reaching their goals, and in order to include those who work at least eight hours/day, have a family, or not much free time.
Will I get the attention I need?
All our lessons are private, one-to-one, or in groups with three students max and it’s our principle to have the learner at the center of the attention (learner-centered approach).
Are the courses in person or online?
We are 100% online.
All the lessons take place with online video calls between the student/s and the teacher/s.
Also will I receive a certificate which is in accordance with the Common European Framework?
You will receive a certificate of attendance from Language and Motivation, stating that you have participated in our three month course (or as many months as you have attended). This is provided upon request.
However, if you wish to use a certificate for official affairs then it’s recommended that you sit for the official exams to prove that you possess that level. We, as an online language school, will be happy to prepare you for the exams.
Will I be able to take the inburgeringsexamen?
Yes, if you are a beginner, with the three month course in Dutch plus an extra month of exam preparation you will have the possibility to sit the inburgeringesexamen and successfully pass. We are proud of many of our students who have achieved this.
Can the company I work for pay for the lessons?
We highly recommend asking your workplace to cover your language learning expenses. This is a common practice. The benefits of you learning the language are huge and employers know that. We can speak directly with your company or indirectly, through you.
What is the difference between the business and standard package?
In the business package you receive additional and 100% personalized educational material starting from A2 level and above.
The business package consists of 20hrs of lessons in the trimester while the standard one consists of 18hrs. 1 hour = 60-minute class period.
When do your classes start?
New classes (individual or group) start the first and the third week of every month.
I want to be in a group lesson, when is the earliest starting date?
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In case you have a partner to start a group with, then new lessons can begin immediately.
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In case you need to be matched then we can check the waiting list for a person with the same language level as you. If your schedules match then you can begin immediately. But if there is no one on the waiting list then you may wait until someone comes along.
What happens if I can’t attend the lesson?
A scheduled lesson with a teacher can be canceled or changed to another date, at least 24 hours before the actual time of the lesson. Otherwise, the lesson time is going to be deducted from the purchased lesson-package, without any further announcement or refund.
How many hours a day shall I study?
If you are a beginner, in order to reach B1 level in three months it’s necessary to study 3-6 hours per week. It is advisable to study an hour per day and if you do so then after 3 months we guarantee you will have an excellent B1 level. Whereas with only 3 hours per week and depending on how keen you are with languages you will have a good or passable B1 level.
How many hours does each lesson last?
Every lesson is 1.5 hours. 1 hour = 60 teaching minutes and that is an exceptional bonus because usually language centers count an hour as 45 teaching minutes.
Will I become fluent with your course?
B1 level doesn’t allow anyone to converse fluently but after 3 months, you will be able to:
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Follow simple presentations and demonstrations.
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Understand the general meaning of professional emails, letters and articles.
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Understand routine and factual newspaper articles expressing personal opinions.
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Respond to daily work communication.
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Express simple opinions and offer advice within a known area.
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Make accurate notes at meetings and seminars.
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Write articulate, semi-formal letters and emails on familiar matters (e.g., motivational letter).
Do I need a computer or can I have my lessons through a tablet/mobile?
You will need a computer to access your educational files and study, but also during the lesson it’s important to be able to have multiple pages open in your web browser.
How is the lesson structured?
There is a clear structure of each lesson. In the first half hour you address any questions that came up during the study time. The one hour that is left is used for speaking and is guided by the teacher. The speaking subjects are not spontaneous but consist of things that you have already prepared as homework. This way you take full advantage of your time with the teacher.
How do I pay for the lessons?
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Upon registration you are asked to pay for the first month of lessons. A new invoice is issued on a monthly basis.
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The payment is done via bank transfer to a NL-based bank account or via card through stripe services.