Often considered to be the most romantic language in the world, French is also a Romance language that originated from Latin.
French is the official language of over 29 countries and is the second-most widely spoken first language in the European Union. The colonial history of France has helped spread this language throughout the world and has led to a wide variety of charming and unique accents and dialects.
In Qatar, French is a commonly spoken language and many show great interest in learning the language. Around 300 students join the French Institute of Qatar (IFQ), per session (every three months), usually with a surge of interest in September and in January.
French classes are “very” popular among the Qataris, said Alexandra Solnica, Course Coordinator at the French Institute. “People are growing fonder and fonder of French! For our current session, 25 percent of all our students are Qataris and this number, including children, teenagers and adults, is constantly increasing,” she said.
Classes for children begin at the age of five, as it is the ideal age to start discovering a different language and culture, through songs, games and role-playing.
“French is also popular among Qatari teenagers as they represent 23 percent of the learners of this age. Some already have a previous knowledge because they started it at school, others are just complete beginners,” said Solnica.
Adults tend to register for intensive classes (four times a week, for a month, every evening, to get a full-on picture and immerse themselves in French, while others prefer the extensive version (twice a week, either in the morning or evening).
“Some people prefer to opt in favour of private classes, which are very popular lately among Qataris as they represent more than 50 percent of our private classes at the moment as it allows a very individualized learning process. Many words are very similar in English and in Arabic so people should not be scared, they will always have something to hold on to,” said Solnica.
The IFQ is a part of the Institut Français network, which this year marks its 30th birthday as an educational landmark in Qatar.
“We offer an effective teaching, provided by teachers specialized in teaching French as a foreign language, therefore with strong experience for all ages and levels.
The focus is really on an active learning as we use the teaching method of project-based learning, which helps students learn better. Our teaching methodology motivates students to gain knowledge, and they remember it longer. We also take into account the diversity of learners and we diversify our activities and adopt different learning styles,” said Solnica.
With the growing demand for French lessons in Qatar, IFQ has started a partnership with Frantastique’ to offer online courses to learn French daily with an email, a story and a personalized correction.
The IFQ also offers theatrical workshops for children who already speak French at home, where a traditional fairy tale is revamped and staged, philosophical workshops for children who also already speak French at home, to discuss and ponder over subjects that affect them. It also screens short films and award-winning animated films.
“Besides that, obviously, and for a wider audience, the Cultural service at the French Embassy offers also different cultural manifestations throughout the year,” said Solnica.
