RE: on-site classes
what covid-19 prevention measures do you have in place?
Because of the on-going concerns with COVID-19 in the D/FW area, we now offer many of our language programs in a blended format: both on-site and online (see our current schedule of classes). All on-site classes are capped at 8 students with COVID-19 prevention measures in place to keep our students and instructors safe. These include extra sanitization and social distancing practices at our school and providing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face shields, gloves, and hand sanitizer. Upon entering our school, you have the option to wear PPE throughout the duration of class.
How long will it take to become fluent?
Becoming fluent in a language takes years of practice, dedication, and daily immersion in the language. How quickly you learn a language depends largely on the work you do outside of class to excel. You can expect to start to have basic exchanges in your target language after 3 sessions of classes with us, and you can expect to be conversational after 6-7 sessions.
which language program should i choose?
We offer language programs in a variety of different formats. Your choice of language program may depend on trial availability, pricing, scheduling, intensiveness, customizability, progress measures, or other factors. Check out our features and pricing page to determine which language program is the best for your situation. Still unsure of what to choose? Schedule a consultation so we can help you!
how do i know which level is right for me?
If you’ve never studied your target language before or you’ve just had an introductory class (maybe in high school), then it’s best to start with one of our introductory language workshops or with the Beginner I level group classes or private lessons. All students enrolled in group classes and private lessons will take assessments and/or complete final projects as they advance through each level to measure their progress.
If you’ve had a little more exposure, it’s best to schedule a consultation via email or phone to see where best to begin. We’ll ask you about your language learning background, goals, interests, and schedule preferences. You can also request to come in and take a placement exam for a more accurate measure of your current level. Our placement exams consist of four parts (listening, reading, speaking, and writing) and scores are broadly structured according to the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR) for international language standards.
IF I TAKE A GROUP CLASS, Is the immersion environment right for me?
Learning a language by being immersed by it is the only tried and true way to learn to THINK in that language. Will you have moments of frustration? Yes. Will you sometimes feel like you’re the only one not “getting it” in class? Yes. Don’t let this deter you from learning! You will have moments when you feel lost, but you will also have moments when things “click” for you, and you will feel very proud and excited! Luckily, our classes are fun and small, so you have a support network to help you when you feel overwhelmed.
can i register in person?
The best way to register is online. You can then reserve a seat in upcoming workshops or group classes on our schedule. If you prefer to register and enroll in person using a check or cash, please email us at learn@langoinstitute.com or call us at (469) 888-9150 to set up an appointment to come in. We have limited office hours since we are often teaching! Note that registration is first come, first served, so to guarantee your spot in a class, be sure to register early.
AM I LEARNING A PARTICULAR DIALECT?
For every language, there will be different varieties (and thus different vocabulary, grammatical forms, and cultural norms) depending on the country or region. When teaching your target language, we always raise awareness of linguistic features with variation among different speakers. That way you can adopt the pronunciations and linguistic forms that work for your personal situation. We also have teachers from around the globe so that you can get exposure to different dialects, vocabulary, and cultural insights.
HOW DO I BUY THE TEXTBOOK?
No textbooks are required for our introductory workshops. For group classes and private lessons, you instructor may assign a textbook as a supplement to the learning materials. Assigned textbooks will be available for purchase on the first day of class for $10 - $45. You may also purchase the textbook(s) yourself, but you’ll want to first check with us to make sure you purchase the right level and version. Assigned textbooks last approximately 2 sessions, and we will buy them back from you for half the cost if you don’t write in them. Please contact us if you’d like to buy the textbook in advance or want us to reserve a used textbook for a discounted price (if we have any available). All other learning materials will be provided in class.
what if i have to miss class?
Our sessions run for 9 weeks. Group classes meet for 2 hours, one day per week. Private lessons meet for a minimum of 1 hour per week. If you need to miss a class, you are welcome to attend a make up on a different day, as long as we have a similar level being offered. Contact us at least 24 hours in advance if you need to miss a class, and we’ll do our best to accommodate. Your teacher will also provide you with weekly assignments to synthesize what you learn each week, and would be glad to meet you a few minutes before the next class to help you catch up!
what is the refund policy?
We ask that each of our students make a commitment to completing each session. Our classes are very small, affordable, and interactive, and for that reason we DO NOT provide refunds. Even if you decide not to finish out the session, our wonderful, dedicated teachers are committed to teaching the full session, and so refunds are not given once the classes start. If you register for group classes and find that you need to cancel, you may do so up 48 hours before the session begins. You will be refunded all but the registration fee. We do not give any refunds for missed workshops or private lessons.
what is the structure of a private lesson and what book is used?
Private lessons can be structured around your level, goals, and interests! If you want to focus on specific terminology or conversational situations for your job, you let us know, and we’ll structure the class accordingly. Private lessons are minimum of 1 hour per session, but you can meet for longer each time, and you can meet as often as you’d like per week to add intensity to your studies. The more frequently you practice the better you’ll become! We often suggest using the same learning materials or textbook that is used for our group classes, but in some cases, we may recommend an alternative textbook that more closely matches your needs and goals.
CAN MY TEENAGER TAKE GROUP CLASSES?
Yes! Our group classes work for ages 15 and up, although we’ve had a handful of mature 13 and 14 year olds who have also enjoyed our classes and learned a lot. Your teenager should be comfortable interacting with adults because the classes are very interactive. If your teenager needs a boost with a high school language class, wants to obtain high school flex credits, or wants to become more conversational in preparation for study abroad, group classes are an excellent option!