The Essentials
Language Requirements
Applicants to the Year High School Program in Belgium-French speaking are expected to have at least two years of French language experience OR arrive with A-1 level knowledge which is defined as: being able recognize and use familiar words and simple phrases for concrete purposes. Ability to introduce yourself or someone else. You ask and answer basic questions about home, family, surroundings, etc. You can communicate in a basic way when the other person speaks slowly and clearly, and is ready to repeat or reformulate to help communication.
Digging Deeper
Language Resources
- Duolingo (free language learning app)
- Babbel
- Rosetta Stone: French
- LiveMocha
- BBC French Language Guide
Cultural Resources
- The Hofstede Center: Belgium
- French Institute Alliance Française
- Culture Grams–Username: afsusa – Password: cgrams
News and Media
- La Libre (French)
- Flanders News (French, Dutch or English)
- Streema
Movies and Documentaries
- Pauline and Paulette (2001)
- The Triplets of Belleville (2003)
- The Secret of Kells (2009)
- A Town Called Panic (2009)
- Azur & Asmar: The Princes’ Quest (2006)
- A Turtle’s Tale: Sammy’s Adventures (2010)
- Illegal (2010)
- Belgium Divided (2008)
- Brussels Express (2012)
Books
- Belgium: Long United, Long Divided
- Belgium – Culture Smart!: a quick guide to customs & etiquette
- A Tall Man in a Low Land: Some Time Among the Belgians
- The Sorrow of Belgium
- Falling
- The Golden Basket
* These resources are not affiliated with AFS