Category: Blog

Discover how Paris’s famous street markets become the perfect classroom for practising French

When people imagine learning French, they often picture a classroom, a textbook and grammar exercises. While these are essential, they are only part of the learning journey.
One of the greatest advantages of studying French in Paris is that the city itself becomes your classroom. Every café, bakery, metro station, museum, and especially every market, offers opportunities to hear, understand and speak authentic French.

At ACCORD, we believe that students don’t simply learn French in the classroom: they experience the language throughout Paris. And there is perhaps no better place to do that than a traditional Parisian street market.

A market is much more than a place to shop

Parisian markets are among the city’s most vibrant and authentic places. Several mornings each week, streets come alive with colourful fruit and vegetable stalls, artisan cheese producers, fishmongers, florists, bakers and local farmers.
Instead of hearing carefully spoken textbook French, you discover the rhythm of everyday conversations, you hear greetings, you listen to recommendations. You also ask questions. You understand prices. You thank the vendors. Every exchange becomes a small but valuable language lesson.

Learn the French people really speak

Markets introduce you to the language used in daily life.
You quickly become familiar with expressions such as:

• Bonjour !
• Je voudrais…
• Combien ça coûte ?
• C’est tout, merci.
• Bonne journée !

Little by little, these expressions become natural.
Unlike memorising vocabulary lists, using French in genuine situations helps you remember words because they are connected to real experiences.

Build confidence through small conversations

Many students worry about speaking French because they are afraid of making mistakes. Markets are ideal places to overcome this fear. The conversations are short, friendly and predictable. Buying strawberries. Ordering cheese. Choosing fresh bread. Asking which tomatoes are the sweetest. These simple interactions gradually build confidence.
Soon, speaking French no longer feels like an exercise, it becomes part of everyday life.

Discover French culture one market at a time

French markets are about much more than food. They reflect local traditions, regional products and the importance that French people place on quality, freshness and conviviality. You discover cheeses you’ve never heard of. You learn why baguettes are bought fresh every day. You taste seasonal fruit. You realise that shopping is often as much about conversation as it is about buying.
Learning French also means understanding the culture behind the language. Markets offer that opportunity every single week.

Expand your vocabulary naturally

A visit to the market introduces dozens of useful words that you’ll use throughout your stay:

• fruits and vegetables
• colours
• numbers
• quantities
• food and cooking
• polite expressions
• everyday questions

Because you immediately see, hear and use these words, they are much easier to remember than vocabulary learned only from a textbook.

An unforgettable lesson outside the classroom

One of the strengths of studying in Paris is that every neighbourhood has its own atmosphere. Some markets are lively and bustling. Others are small and intimate. Some specialise in fresh produce, while others feature regional delicacies, flowers, books or antiques. Each visit offers new opportunities to observe, listen and communicate. This is exactly why experiential learning plays such an important role in language acquisition.

The market near ACCORD: a true Parisian experience

One of the great advantages of studying at the ACCORD French Language School is its location in the heart of Paris’s 15th arrondissement, one of the city’s most pleasant and authentic neighbourhoods. Just a short walk from the school, students can discover one of the area’s lively open-air markets, held several times a week. Here, local residents shop for fresh fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, seafood, flowers, pastries and many other French specialities.
Unlike markets designed mainly for tourists, this is a genuine neighbourhood market where students experience everyday Parisian life while practising their French in authentic situations. It’s the perfect place to continue learning after class and to discover that some of the best French lessons happen while choosing a baguette or chatting with a cheese seller.

Learning by living the language

Research consistently shows that languages are learned faster when students regularly use them in meaningful situations. Ordering lunch. Buying flowers. Asking for directions. Talking to a market vendor. These everyday experiences reinforce what has been learned in class and make French feel alive.
This is one of the reasons why studying French in Paris is so effective: the city provides endless opportunities to practise naturally.

ACCORD-Paris: where the city becomes your classroom

ACCORD School: Great location near the Eiffel Tower, friendly and experienced teachers. The French language school is fully air-conditioned!
A wide choice of high quality French courses.
At ACCORD, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our teaching approach encourages students to practise French whenever possible, in cafés, museums, parks, neighbourhoods and traditional Parisian markets.
Every interaction becomes another opportunity to improve listening, speaking and cultural understanding. Because learning French is not only about mastering grammar. It is about living the language.

And in Paris, every market stall, every smile and every conversation bring you one step closer to speaking French with confidence.

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Host Family Accommodation in Paris: The Best Way to Learn French Through Total Immersion

Learning French in Paris is about much more than attending language classes. It is about experiencing the language every day, discovering French traditions firsthand and becoming part of the life of one of the world’s most fascinating cities.
For many international students, staying with a Parisian host family is the most rewarding way to experience France. More than simply providing accommodation, a host family offers a welcoming home where every conversation, every meal and every shared moment become an opportunity to improve your French naturally.
Whether you stay for one week, several months or even longer, living with a host family transforms your language course into a genuine cultural immersion. 

Why choose a host family?

Continue learning French after class

Your French lessons do not end when you leave the classroom. At breakfast, over dinner, while discussing your day or asking for recommendations about Paris, you continue practising French in authentic situations. Listening to native speakers and taking part in everyday conversations helps you develop confidence, improve your pronunciation and enrich your vocabulary naturally.
Many students tell us that these informal conversations become some of the most valuable moments of their stay: “We wanted to thank you for the wonderful time we had with you. You are very kind and friendly. Thank you for helping us with our French.”

Discover everyday French life

Guidebooks introduce you to Paris. A host family introduces you to French life. You’ll experience daily routines, family traditions, local customs and cultural habits that tourists rarely discover. From shopping at the neighbourhood market to celebrating family occasions, you gain a deeper understanding of French culture simply by living it. This authentic immersion makes your stay both richer and more memorable.

Enjoy home-cooked French meals

Food occupies a special place in French culture, and sharing meals is an important part of family life. Depending on the accommodation option you choose, you may enjoy breakfast, dinner or both with your hosts, discovering traditional recipes, French specialities and the pleasure of long conversations around the table.

Feel at home in Paris

Moving to another country can sometimes feel intimidating, especially if it is your first experience abroad. A host family provides a reassuring environment where students quickly feel welcome. Many of our hosts have been welcoming international students for years and understand exactly how to help newcomers adapt to life in Paris.
One student shared this wonderful feedback: “I had a great time with my host family. I was treated like her own daughter. And… the food was excellent, and every meal was delicious! I hope I can come back next year!”
For many students, their host family becomes a genuine “home away from home.”

Carefully selected Parisian host families

Finding the right host family is essential to a successful language stay. For more than 35 years, ACCORD French Language School and its accommodation partners have worked with carefully selected families inside Paris, allowing students to enjoy city life without long daily commutes from the suburbs.
Our host families are accustomed to welcoming international students and helping them discover both the French language and Parisian culture in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.
Because every student is different, every family is different too. Some families have children or teenagers, others are retired couples or living alone. Some have pets, and many come from multicultural backgrounds themselves.
This diversity allows us to match students and families as closely as possible. We therefore encourage students to tell us as much as possible about themselves, their interests, lifestyle, dietary requirements and personal preferences, so that we can recommend the host family best suited to their profile.

Accommodation options to suit every student

ACCORD offers several host family options to accommodate different budgets and lifestyles:

• Single room with breakfast (Bed & Breakfast)
• Single room with breakfast and kitchen access
• Half-board (breakfast and dinner every day)
• Single room with breakfast and two evening meals per week
• VIP single room with half-board (single room with en-suite shower)
• Twin rooms for two friends travelling together (subject to availability)

The half-board option remains the most popular choice. After a day of classes and sightseeing, many students appreciate returning to a welcoming home, sharing dinner with their host family and continuing to practise French in a relaxed atmosphere.

Host family accommodation is available throughout the year.

• Arrival: Sunday
• Departure: Saturday
• Additional nights are available on request (subject to availability and additional fees).

More than accommodation: a complete cultural experience

Choosing a host family means choosing complete linguistic and cultural immersion. It allows you to continue speaking French outside the classroom, understand everyday French life, discover local traditions and build relationships that often continue long after your stay has ended.
Many former ACCORD students remain in contact with their Parisian host families for years, and some even return to visit them.

Learn French the natural way

Language is learned through communication, shared experiences and daily life. A host family offers exactly that: a unique opportunity to live French rather than simply study it.
Combined with your French course at ACCORD Paris, it creates one of the most effective, and enjoyable, ways to make rapid progress while enjoying an unforgettable stay in the French capital.

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How to Take Notes in French: A Practical Skill Every Student Should Learn

Many students preparing to study in France focus on speaking, listening, reading and grammar. While these are essential skills, there is another ability that often receives far less attention, and yet can make a huge difference to academic success: taking notes efficiently in French.

Whether you are attending a French language course, a university lecture, a conference or a professional presentation, good note-taking allows you to capture the essential information without trying to write down every word. It helps you stay focused, organise your ideas and review your lessons more effectively afterwards. Learning how to take notes is therefore not simply a language exercise, it is an essential study skill.

Why is note-taking so important?

As a student, you’ll probably find yourself taking notes almost every day. But this skill is just as valuable in professional life.
You may need to take notes:

• during French language classes,
• at university lectures,
• during seminars or conferences,
• in business meetings,
• during interviews,
• while researching documents for reports, presentations or projects.

In every situation, your objective remains the same: identify the important ideas, organise the information clearly and make it easy to understand later.

Don’t write everything, write what matters

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is trying to write every sentence they hear. Effective note-taking is not transcription.
Instead, learn to identify:

• the main ideas,
• key words,
• important dates and figures,
• definitions,
• conclusions,
• examples only when they are essential.

This requires active listening. Before writing something down, make sure you have understood its meaning. With practice, you will naturally learn to distinguish the essential information from supporting details.

Organise your notes from the very beginning

Well-organised notes are much easier to revise.
Before a class or lecture begins, remember to include:

• the date,
• the title of the lesson or presentation,
• the speaker’s name,
• the topic being discussed.

Leave generous margins or blank spaces so you can add explanations or corrections afterwards. Use headings, subheadings and indentation to show the relationship between ideas. A clear page makes revision much faster.

Develop your own system of abbreviations

One of the secrets of fast note-taking is learning to shorten words. Abbreviations save valuable time and allow you to keep listening instead of constantly writing.
As you continue learning French, you’ll gradually create your own personal system. The important thing is to remain consistent so that your notes are still easy to understand several days, or even several weeks, later.
Interestingly, many abbreviations used in note-taking are also common in everyday spoken French. In Paris, for example, nobody is surprised to hear words such as apéro, resto, expo or prof.

Common French abbreviations

Here are some useful abbreviations you can start using immediately:

• bcp : beaucoup
• déf : définition
• ex : exemple
• nb : nombre
• qd : quand
• qqch : quelque chose
• tjs ou tjrs : toujours
• expo : exposition
• resto : restaurant
• TV : télévision
• prof : professeur
• amphi : amphithéâtre
• ado : adolescent
• math : mathématiques
• sc : sciences
• édito : éditorial
• appart : appartement
• conf : conférence
• dico : dictionnaire
• apéro : apéritif
• hebdo : hebdomadaire
• fac : faculté
• cata : catastrophe

You’ll soon discover many more as your French becomes more natural.

Practice makes note-taking easier

Like speaking French, taking notes is a skill that improves with practice. The more often you attend classes, listen to podcasts, watch presentations or participate in discussions, the more quickly you’ll learn to identify key information and write it down efficiently.
Over time, you’ll develop your own style, your own abbreviations and your own way of organising information.

Improve your written French with ACCORD Paris

At ACCORD French Language School in Paris, developing strong written communication skills is an important part of learning French. Students wishing to improve their grammar, written expression and academic writing can join the French Grammar and Writing Course. This programme combines the Morning Intensive French Course (20 h/week) with three French grammar and writing afternoon lessons (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday). Open to all levels, from complete beginners to advanced learners, this course helps students write more accurately, organise their ideas more effectively and gain confidence in written French.

To complement these writing skills, many students also choose to add two afternoon Oral Communication lessons on Mondays and Fridays, allowing them to improve both their spoken and written French during the same stay.

Writing well means learning more effectively

Taking notes may seem like a simple habit, but it is actually one of the most valuable academic skills you can acquire. By learning to listen actively, identify key ideas and organise information clearly, you’ll not only improve your French, you’ll also become a more confident student, whether you’re attending a language course, studying at university or working in an international environment.
Mastering note-taking is another step towards mastering French itself.

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The partnership established by the ACCORD French language school with the GET YOUR GUIDE agency allows all students of the ACCORD school to participate in the visits and cultural program offered by this agency whose office is located two minutes from the school, 62 avenue de Suffren, in Paris.

Students can, in addition to their French course, sign up for visits to famous museums or monuments, a cruise on the Seine or the Canal Saint-Martin, an excursion to Giverny, Versailles, Honfleur, or even to Mont Saint-Michel or Disneyland Paris.

Among the visits and excursions currently offered:

• Cruise on the Seine departing from the Eiffel Tower, one-hour cruise
• Disneyland Paris: 1-day ticket
• Disneyland Paris ticket with transfer
• Tourist cruise on the Seine with the Bateaux Mouches
• Hop-on hop-off bus with optional cruise
• Reserved Access to the Louvre and Boat Cruise
• Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie: Combined tickets
• Versailles Palace and Gardens: Full Access Ticket
• Evening cruise on the Seine, with music
• Entrance ticket to the Opéra Garnier
• Classical music concert in Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre
• Dinner show at the Moulin Rouge
• Tickets for classical music concerts in Parisian churches
• Entrance tickets to the Musée d’Orsay
• Guided tour of the Musée d’Orsay with options
• Cruise on the Saint-Martin canal and the Seine
• Half-day excursion to Giverny, Monet’s house and gardens
• Day trip to the gardens of Giverny with a professional guide
• Honfleur: Private excursion aboard the gardens of Giverny and Honfleur
• Excursion to Giverny and Versailles with lunch
• Normandy: Guided tour of the cliffs of Étretat
• Excursion to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris
• …and more…

This partnership between the ACCORD French language school and the GET YOUR GUIDE agency is displayed throughout the school:

To participate in this cultural program, students must be enrolled in a semi-intensive or intensive French course offered by the ACCORD Paris school.

To find out more about our French courses in France: contact our French Language School in Paris.

 

Learning French extends far beyond the classroom

One of the greatest advantages of learning French in Paris is that the city itself becomes part of your classroom. After your morning lessons, grammar exercises and conversation practice, why not continue learning in one of Paris’s beautiful parks and gardens? Whether you want to review your notes, read a French novel, listen to a podcast or simply observe everyday conversations around you, Paris offers countless peaceful green spaces where learning feels both relaxing and inspiring.

Studying outdoors is not only enjoyable, it is also an excellent way to immerse yourself in the language while discovering another side of Paris.

Why study French outside the classroom?

Language learning doesn’t stop when your lesson ends. In fact, some of the most valuable progress happens when you begin using French naturally throughout your day.

Sitting in a park allows you to review vocabulary, practise pronunciation, write in your notebook or simply listen to the rhythm of spoken French around you. You may overhear conversations, read information panels, order a coffee from a nearby kiosk or chat with fellow students enjoying the sunshine. Changing your study environment also helps improve concentration and memory. Fresh air, natural surroundings and a relaxed atmosphere can make learning more enjoyable and productive.

Jardin du Luxembourg: A favourite among students

The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the most iconic gardens in Paris and a wonderful place to study. Comfortable green chairs are scattered throughout the gardens, making it easy to find a quiet corner with a view of the fountains or flowerbeds. Bring your French grammar book, review new vocabulary or simply enjoy reading beneath the shade of the trees. The garden also offers plenty of opportunities to observe everyday Parisian life, making it an ideal place to combine study with cultural immersion.

Parc Georges-Brassens: A local favourite in the 15th arrondissement

Located in the same friendly 15th arrondissement than the ACCORD French language school, the Parc Georges-Brassens is a hidden gem that many visitors never discover.

Built on the site of former vineyards and an old slaughterhouse, the park now offers beautiful lawns, rose gardens, ponds and quiet walking paths. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for students who want to revise their French after class without the crowds found in some of the city’s more famous parks. On weekends, the nearby second-hand book market is another wonderful opportunity to browse French books and practise your reading skills.

Champ de Mars: Learn French with the Eiffel Tower nearby

Few places are more memorable than studying French with the Eiffel Tower rising above you. The wide lawns of the Champ de Mars, just a few minutes’ walk from the ACCORD school, attract both Parisians and visitors from around the world. It is an ideal place to review your class notes, listen to French podcasts or simply enjoy a picnic while reading in French.
Being surrounded by one of the world’s most famous landmarks also reminds you that studying abroad is about creating unforgettable memories as well as learning a language.

Parc Monceau: Elegant and Peaceful

Parc Monceau (selected photo for this article) offers a quieter atmosphere with elegant pathways, statues and beautiful trees. Less frequented by tourists than some other parks, it provides an excellent setting for focused study or conversation practice with classmates. Its calm surroundings make it especially suitable for preparing presentations, writing assignments or simply reflecting on everything you have learned during the day.

Jardin des Plantes: Learn while discovering nature

If you enjoy both science and nature, the Jardin des Plantes is an inspiring place to spend an afternoon. Botanical gardens, historic greenhouses and informative displays provide countless opportunities to encounter new French vocabulary in a meaningful context. Learning becomes effortless when words are connected to real experiences.

Parc Montsouris: A peaceful retreat

Located in southern Paris, Parc Montsouris is popular with students thanks to its spacious lawns, lake and tranquil atmosphere. It is the perfect place to review lessons before an exam or simply enjoy an afternoon reading French literature while watching local life unfold around you. Many international students find that these quiet moments of independent study significantly boost their confidence.

Make every outing part of your French immersion

Studying outdoors is about much more than opening a textbook. As you walk through the parks, read signs, listen to conversations, visit nearby cafés or ask for directions, you naturally continue practising French. Every interaction strengthens your listening skills, expands your vocabulary and increases your confidence. The more French becomes part of your daily routine, the faster your progress will be.

A city that encourages learning

One of the reasons Paris is such an exceptional place to study French is that learning happens everywhere. Museums become history lessons. Markets become vocabulary lessons. Restaurants become conversation practice. And parks become peaceful outdoor classrooms where knowledge gained in class begins to come alive. Every day offers new opportunities to improve your French while enjoying one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Learn French in Paris, and beyond the classroom

Choosing an accredited French language school in Paris gives you far more than excellent teaching. It gives you access to an entire city where every neighbourhood, every café, every museum and every park becomes part of your language-learning journey. The classroom provides the foundations, Paris provides the experience. Together, they create one of the most rewarding ways to learn French.

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How French Culture Helps You Learn French Faster: The Power of Immersion in Paris

Learning a language is not only about memorising vocabulary lists or studying grammar rules. A language is a reflection of the people who speak it: their history, their traditions, their way of thinking, their humour and their daily habits.

This is why learning French in France, and especially in Paris, offers a unique advantage. By discovering French culture, interacting with French people and experiencing everyday life, students naturally develop a deeper understanding of the language and improve their skills much faster. French is not simply a subject to study. It is a living language that must be heard, spoken and experienced.

Language and culture are inseparable

Every language carries the identity of the society where it developed. French expressions, vocabulary and ways of communicating are closely connected to French culture. Understanding cultural references makes it easier to understand the meaning behind words and expressions.
For example, a conversation in French is not only about grammar. It also involves:

• knowing how to greet someone appropriately,
• understanding French politeness and social codes,
• recognising humour and cultural references,
• understanding traditions and everyday habits,
• adapting the way you communicate depending on the situation.

When students discover French culture, they do not only learn new words, they learn how French people use the language.

Paris: a real-life classroom for learning French

A classroom provides essential foundations: grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and communication skills. But outside the classroom, Paris becomes an extraordinary learning environment.
Every day offers countless opportunities to practise French naturally:

• ordering a coffee in a Parisian café,
• shopping at a local market,
• asking questions in a bakery or a shop,
• visiting museums and historical monuments,
• listening to conversations in the streets,
• speaking with French people in everyday situations.

These experiences transform theoretical knowledge into practical communication. Students quickly realise that the French they learn in class becomes much easier to remember when they use it in real-life situations.

Discovering French food improves your vocabulary

Food is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover French culture.
French gastronomy introduces students to a completely new vocabulary:

• ingredients,
• regional specialities,
• cooking techniques,
• restaurant expressions,
• traditional French dishes.

A visit to a bakery, a traditional market, a café or a French restaurant becomes a language lesson. Ordering a croissant, asking about a local cheese or discussing a menu encourages students to communicate naturally while discovering an essential part of French culture.

Art and history bring French language to life

France has a unique cultural heritage, and Paris is one of the world’s greatest cultural capitals. Museums, exhibitions, theatres, cinemas and historical sites allow students to discover the references that appear throughout French society.
Visiting places such as museums, monuments or neighbourhoods creates opportunities to:

• learn new vocabulary,
• practise listening skills,
• ask questions,
• express opinions,
• understand French perspectives.

Culture makes the language more meaningful and memorable.

Everyday conversations are the key to progress

One of the greatest advantages of studying French in France is the opportunity to communicate every day.
Even simple interactions contribute to improvement:

• saying hello to neighbours,
• chatting with shopkeepers,
• ordering food,
• asking for directions,
• making new friends.

These small conversations build confidence and help students overcome the fear of making mistakes.

Language learning is not about speaking perfectly from the first day. It is about communicating, experimenting and gradually becoming more comfortable.

Understanding French society helps you communicate better

French communication has its own characteristics. French people may place great importance on:

• clarity of expression,
• discussion and debate,
• precision of vocabulary,
• politeness and social interaction.

Understanding these cultural aspects helps students communicate more naturally.
Students who understand French culture will not only speak French correctly, but they will also understand how to use French appropriately.

Why cultural immersion makes learning faster

Scientific studies on language learning consistently show that immersion encourages faster progress because learners are exposed to the language more frequently and in more varied contexts.
When students live in France, French becomes part of their daily routine:

• they hear it every day,
• they read it everywhere,
• they use it in real situations,
• they connect words with experiences.

This creates stronger memories and makes learning more effective.
A word learned from a textbook can be forgotten. A word connected to a personal experience in Paris is much more likely to stay.

Learning French at an accredited French language school in Paris

Choosing an accredited French language school allows students to combine high-quality French language courses with cultural immersion.
ACCORD teachers do not only teach grammar and vocabulary. They also help students understand French culture, communication habits and everyday life.
Through classroom French lessons, cultural activities and opportunities to explore Paris, students develop both their linguistic skills and their confidence. 

French culture: the secret ingredient to learning faster

French culture is not an additional element of learning the language, it is one of the reasons why the language exists.
By discovering French traditions, meeting French people, exploring Paris and experiencing everyday life, students create a deeper connection with the language.
They stop seeing French as a collection of rules and start experiencing it as a way of communicating, thinking and connecting with others. This is why learning French in France is such a powerful experience.

The language is everywhere. The culture surrounds you. Every conversation becomes a lesson. And every day in Paris becomes an opportunity to improve your French.

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How to Improve Your French Writing: Practical Tips and a Grammar Course in Paris

Speaking French is often the first goal for students learning the language. Being able to order a coffee, ask for directions or have a conversation with parisians is exciting and rewarding. However, writing in French is another challenge altogether.
French grammar is renowned for its complexity. Verb conjugations, gender agreement, spelling, sentence structure, silent letters and punctuation all require precision. Even students who communicate comfortably in spoken French often discover that writing accurately demands additional practice and guidance. The good news is that writing well in French is a skill that anyone can develop with the right methods, regular practice and expert teaching.

Why Is Writing in French So Challenging?

French is one of the world’s most elegant languages, but also one of its most demanding when it comes to writing.
Students frequently encounter difficulties with:

• verb tenses and conjugations,
• masculine and feminine agreement,
• singular and plural forms,
• spelling and accents,
• sentence construction,
• prepositions,
• formal and informal writing styles,
• punctuation and written conventions.

Unlike speaking, writing gives you time to think, but it also requires greater accuracy. Every sentence becomes an opportunity to apply grammar rules correctly while expressing your ideas clearly.

The Best Ways to Improve Your French Writing

Improving your written French does not happen overnight. It comes from combining several effective learning strategies.

Read Every Day
Reading newspapers, novels, blogs and magazines in French exposes you to authentic sentence structures, vocabulary and grammar used by native speakers. The more you read, the more naturally correct writing patterns become familiar.
The advantage of reading texts in French is that you can read them multiple times, without time constraints. You need to be able to dedicate time to reading texts in French in order to better understand and then assimilate what you are learning.

Write Regularly
Practice is essential. Keep a journal, write emails, describe your day or summarise articles you’ve read. The objective is not perfection but consistency. The more you write, the more confident you become.
To make writing enjoyable, we recommend that students at the ACCORD Paris school keep a “travel journal,” noting down each day what they have seen, read, watched, and learned.

Learn Grammar in Context
Grammar is much easier to remember when it is applied in meaningful situations. Rather than memorising isolated rules, students benefit from using grammar while writing emails, descriptions, essays or everyday texts.

Learn French Grammar and Writing in Paris

One of the most effective ways to improve your written French is through an intensive language immersion programme. Studying in Paris allows you to combine structured grammar lessons with everyday exposure to authentic French, making your progress faster and more natural.
At a Parisian accredited French language school such as ACCORD, students benefit from a programme specifically designed to strengthen both grammar knowledge and writing skills.

The ACCORD French Grammar and Writing Course

The French Grammar and Writing Course has been designed for students who wish to improve the accuracy, clarity and confidence of their written French. The programme combines the school’s Intensive French Course every morning with specialised writing and grammar workshops in the afternoons.

Morning: Intensive French Course
Students attend the Intensive French Course for 20 hours per week, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Morning classes focus on developing all language skills:

• speaking
• listening
• reading
• writing
• vocabulary
• grammar
• pronunciation

Lessons follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and are adapted to each student’s level.

Afternoon: French Grammar and Writing
On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, students attend dedicated Grammar and Written French classes. These workshops focus specifically on improving written accuracy and helping students master French grammar through practical exercises and guided writing activities.
Students progressively develop greater confidence in writing French correctly while enriching their vocabulary and improving sentence structure.
The course is open to all levels, from complete beginners to advanced learners, and is available to adult students aged 16 and over.

Improve Your Speaking Skills Too
Many students wish to improve both their written and spoken French during their stay. For this reason, ACCORD also recommends adding two French Oral Communication lessons held on Monday and Friday afternoons, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
These conversation-focused classes provide additional opportunities to practise speaking naturally, improve pronunciation, gain fluency and build confidence in real-life communication, all for a very modest additional fee. Combining Grammar and Writing classes with Oral Communication workshops creates a balanced programme that develops every aspect of your French.

Learn to Write with Confidence

Writing well in French opens many doors. Whether you are preparing for university studies, advancing your career, sitting an official French examination or simply wishing to communicate more accurately, strong writing skills will make a lasting difference.
Grammar is not simply a collection of rules, it is the foundation that allows you to express your ideas clearly and elegantly. With expert teachers, structured lessons and complete immersion in Paris, improving your written French becomes both effective and enjoyable.

If your goal is to write French with greater accuracy and confidence while continuing to develop your overall language skills, an intensive French Grammar and Writing Course in Paris is one of the best investments you can make in your learning journey.

Contact ACCORD Paris

 

Why the 15th Arrondissement Is One of the Best Places to Study French in Paris

Study French. Experience Paris. Live the Language.

When people imagine studying French in Paris, they often picture elegant cafés, lively markets, beautiful boulevards and conversations on sunny terraces. The good news? You don’t have to imagine it. In the 15th arrondissement, this is everyday life.
Located on the Left Bank of the Seine, the 15th is one of Paris’s largest and most welcoming neighbourhoods. It combines everything international students look for: safety, excellent transport connections, authentic Parisian life and a vibrant atmosphere, without the overwhelming crowds found in some of the city’s busiest tourist districts.
It is also the neighbourhood where an accredited French language school such as ACCORD Paris welcomes students from around the world every year.

Experience the Real Paris

One of the greatest advantages of the 15th arrondissement is its authenticity. Unlike neighbourhoods designed primarily for tourists, the 15th is where Parisians live, work, shop and meet friends.
As you walk through its streets, you’ll quickly discover local bakeries filled with the aroma of freshly baked croissants, independent food shops, bustling cafés, family-run restaurants and neighbourhood squares where everyday Parisian life unfolds.
For students learning French, this creates countless opportunities to hear and practise the language naturally. Every visit to a bakery, every coffee ordered in French and every conversation with a shopkeeper becomes part of your learning experience.

A Safe and Comfortable Environment for Students

Choosing where to study abroad is about more than selecting a course, it is also about feeling comfortable where you live.
The 15th arrondissement is widely appreciated for its residential character, clean streets and friendly atmosphere. Families, professionals, university students and local residents all contribute to a neighbourhood that feels welcoming throughout the year.
Whether you are travelling alone or studying abroad for the first time, the area offers the reassurance of a lively yet relaxed environment where students quickly feel at home.

Discover One of Paris’s Best Outdoor Markets

Few experiences are more French than shopping at an open-air market. Several times each week, the neighbourhood comes alive as colourful market stalls fill the streets with seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, flowers, pastries and regional specialities.
For language learners, these markets are much more than places to shop. They are living classrooms. Listening to conversations, asking questions, discovering new products and interacting with local vendors provide authentic opportunities to improve your French while experiencing an important part of everyday French culture.

Learn French Between Cafés and Brasseries

Some of the best language lessons happen after class. The 15th arrondissement is filled with traditional cafés where you can enjoy a coffee while reading the French newspapers, reviewing your notes or simply listening to conversations around you.
As evening arrives, the neighbourhood takes on a different rhythm. Friendly wine bars, cosy restaurants and classic Parisian brasseries welcome both locals and visitors, creating the perfect atmosphere for practising French with classmates or simply enjoying Parisian life. Language learning becomes part of your social life.

Close to the Eiffel Tower—Yet Wonderfully Local

One of the great pleasures of studying in the 15th arrondissement is its location. The Eiffel Tower is only a short walk or métro ride away, allowing students to enjoy one of the world’s most famous landmarks whenever they wish.
Yet despite this proximity, much of the neighbourhood has preserved its authentic local character. You can spend the afternoon visiting one of Paris’s iconic monuments before returning to quiet residential streets, neighbourhood cafés and local shops where everyday Paris continues at its own pace. It is the perfect balance between discovery and daily life.

Excellent Connections Across Paris

Paris has one of the world’s most efficient public transport systems, and the 15th arrondissement is particularly well served. Several métro lines, buses and nearby train connections make it easy to reach museums, universities, theatres, monuments and every other district of the capital.
Whether you want to explore Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, Le Marais, Le Louvre museum, Notre Dame cathedral, La Saint Chapelle or Saint-Germain-des-Prés after class, the entire city is within easy reach.

The Ideal Place to Learn French

Learning French is not only about what happens inside the classroom. It is about hearing the language every day. Speaking it. Living it. The 15th arrondissement naturally encourages this immersion.
From ordering your morning croissant to chatting with market vendors, relaxing in a café or discovering local restaurants with friends, every day offers new opportunities to gain confidence and improve your French.

Study French in the Heart of Paris

Choosing an accredited French language school located in the 15th arrondissement means studying in one of the city’s most enjoyable neighbourhoods. Here, your classroom extends far beyond the school itself. Paris becomes your teacher. Its streets become your vocabulary book. Its cafés become conversation practice. Its markets become listening exercises. Its people become part of your learning journey.
The French language school is fully air-conditioned!
And long after your course has ended, you may discover that what you remember most is not only the French you learned, but the Paris you experienced.

Ready to experience French where it is spoken every day? Discover our accredited French courses in Paris and start your own language journey in one of the world’s most inspiring cities.

Study French. Experience Paris. Live the Language.

Contact us now

 

Experience French Where It Is Spoken Every Day

Learning a language is about much more than studying grammar and memorising vocabulary. To communicate naturally and confidently, you also need to experience the language in authentic situations. This is why, at ACCORD Paris, learning continues well beyond the classroom.
One of the school’s most appreciated teaching activities is its programme of educational outings, designed to help students put their French into practice while discovering the city of Paris and its culture. These experiences transform the city itself into an extension of the classroom.

Turning Paris into Your Classroom

At the ACCORD French language School in Paris, all courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ensuring that students progress according to internationally recognised language levels. Our communicative teaching approach focuses on student’s individual needs, learning strategies and objectives. The classroom provides the foundations, but genuine progress comes when students begin using French in everyday life. That is precisely the purpose of our educational outings included in our morning intensive French course, 20h/week.

Accompanied by their teacher, students explore different areas of Paris while interacting with the language in real-life situations. Whether asking for information, discussing a monument, reading an information leaflet or simply observing everyday conversations, they develop confidence by using French naturally.

Learn French Through Real-Life Experiences

Language becomes much easier to master when it is connected to real experiences.
During these lessons beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to:

• speak French in authentic situations,
• improve their listening comprehension,
• develop spontaneous oral communication,
• discover French culture and everyday life,
• observe how French is used naturally by native speakers,
• enrich their vocabulary through direct experience.

Rather than simply learning about Paris, students experience the city while learning French.

Developing Oral Communication Naturally

At ACCORD Paris, oral communication is one of the central objectives of our French courses.
Students progressively learn to:

• understand spoken French,
• express themselves clearly,
• improve their pronunciation and intonation,
• participate confidently in conversations,
• communicate naturally in everyday situations.

Our educational outings provide the perfect opportunity to apply these skills in authentic contexts. Many students discover that speaking French outside the classroom increases both their confidence and their fluency.

Discover Paris While Discovering the French Language

Paris offers an extraordinary environment for language learning. Its neighbourhoods, museums, cafés, parks, markets and historic streets provide endless opportunities to observe French culture and interact with local people.

Our educational outings encourage students to become curious observers of French life. They compare cultures, ask questions, exchange ideas and gradually gain a deeper understanding not only of the language but also of the society in which it is spoken. Learning French becomes a living experience rather than simply an academic subject.

A Long-Standing Part of the ACCORD Paris Teaching Method

Educational outings have been an integral part of ACCORD Paris since the school was founded. They perfectly complement classroom lessons by allowing students to transfer what they have learned into real communication. This combination of structured teaching and practical immersion is one of the reasons why so many students make rapid progress during their stay in Paris.

Want to Improve Your Spoken French Even Faster?

If your priority is developing oral fluency, ACCORD Paris recommends combining your morning French course with one or both of our afternoon French Oral Communication classes, held on Mondays and Fridays. These additional sessions provide even more opportunities to practise speaking, improve your confidence and communicate naturally in French.

Because French Is Meant to Be Lived

Learning French does not stop when the lesson ends. Every conversation, every café, every museum, every street and every encounter in Paris becomes another opportunity to improve. At ACCORD Paris, we believe the best way to learn French is not only to study it, but to live it.

Contact ACCORD Paris

 

French Summer Courses in Paris: A Guide for University Students

Summer is the perfect time to achieve your academic goals while discovering a new culture. For many university students, summer offers an opportunity to catch up on language requirements, complete additional credits, or improve their French before returning to campus. But instead of spending the summer in a traditional classroom at home, why not combine your studies with an unforgettable experience abroad?

A French summer course in Paris allows you to develop your language skills, immerse yourself in French culture, meet students from around the world, and, with approval from your university, earn academic credit at the same time.

Earn Academic Credit, Improve Your French, and Experience Paris

At ACCORD Paris, students from universities worldwide join summer French programmes designed to help them progress quickly while enjoying everything Paris has to offer.

Why Choose a Summer French Course in Paris?

Learn French Through Complete Immersion
The most effective way to improve your French is to use it every day. When you study French in Paris, learning continues outside the classroom. Ordering food at a restaurant, visiting museums, shopping at local markets, speaking with French people, or simply navigating the city all become opportunities to practise your language skills. A summer course in France transforms everyday experiences into valuable learning moments.

Make Progress During Your University Break
University students often have limited time during the academic year. Between classes, exams, internships, and other commitments, finding time for language study can be challenging. A summer intensive French course allows you to focus entirely on your French for several weeks and make significant progress in a short period of time. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, an immersive summer programme can help you strengthen your speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.

Earn University Credit While Studying in Paris
Many students choose summer French courses abroad because they need language credits for their degree. Before enrolling, students should contact their university’s Study Abroad Office, Registrar, or French Department to obtain approval. ACCORD French Language School in Paris can provide the necessary academic documentation, including:

• Course syllabus
• Number of instructional hours
• Curriculum covered
• Attendance records
• Teacher evaluations
• Assessment results
• Official transcript

This allows your university to evaluate the course and determine whether academic credit can be awarded.

Experience Paris as Your Classroom
A French summer programme is not only about grammar and vocabulary. Paris offers a unique cultural environment where students can connect the language they learn in class with real experiences. Explore historic neighbourhoods, visit world-famous museums, discover French cuisine, attend cultural events, and experience daily life in one of the world’s most fascinating cities. Every street, conversation, and cultural discovery becomes part of your French learning journey.

Meet Students from Around the World
A summer French course in Paris attracts students from many countries and backgrounds. Inside the classroom, you will communicate in French with classmates who share the same goal: improving their language skills and discovering French culture. Many students leave Paris not only with better French but also with friendships that continue long after the course ends.

Learn with Experienced French Teachers
A successful language course depends greatly on the quality of teaching. At ACCORD Paris, experienced teachers guide students through a structured learning programme based on their level and objectives. Courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the international standard used to define and assess language proficiency.

Students develop all essential skills:

• Speaking confidently in French
• Understanding spoken French
• Reading authentic French materials
• Writing accurately
• Improving grammar and vocabulary
• Understanding French culture and communication styles

Choose a Programme Adapted to Your Level
Whether you are taking French for the first time or preparing for advanced academic studies, your course should match your current ability. Students are placed according to their CEFR level, ensuring that they learn with classmates at a similar stage and progress efficiently. The objective is not only to learn French rules but to become able to communicate naturally in real situations.

Enjoy a Summer That Combines Study and Discovery
A summer in Paris offers much more than French language classes. After lessons, students can enjoy everything the city has to offer:

• Museums and exhibitions
• Parks and gardens
• Historical monuments
• French gastronomy
• Concerts and cultural events
• The unique atmosphere of Parisian neighbourhoods

Learning French in Paris means combining education with personal discovery.

No Need to Buy Expensive Course Materials
At ACCORD Paris, students benefit from a transparent learning experience. All pedagogical materials provided by the school are included in the tuition fees. Students do not need to purchase expensive textbooks or additional teaching resources before starting their course. Everything is prepared to help students concentrate on what matters most: learning French.

Create Memories That Last Beyond Summer
A summer French course in Paris is an investment in your education, but also in yourself. You will return home with improved language skills, greater confidence, international friendships, and memories of living in one of the world’s most inspiring cities. For many students, a summer in Paris becomes much more than a language programme, it becomes one of the most meaningful experiences of their university years.

Why Choose ACCORD Paris for Your French Summer Course?
For 35 years, ACCORD Paris has welcomed students from around the world who want to learn French in an international and supportive environment.
Our summer French courses combine:

• High-quality French teaching
• A recognised CEFR-based curriculum
• Experienced teachers
• A multicultural student community (more than 40 different natioanlities come to ACCORD)
• A central Paris location: the school is located near the Eiffel tower
• Support for students seeking university credit approval
• The French language school is fully air-conditioned

If you are looking for a way to improve your French, earn possible academic credit, and experience life in France, a summer French course in Paris could be the perfect choice.

Start Planning Your French Summer in Paris Today

Your university summer can become an opportunity to learn, explore, and create unforgettable memories. Instead of simply studying French, come to Paris and experience the language where it truly comes alive.

Contact ACCORD-Paris French language school