A private French lesson that begins with a book—and leads back to you.
Read a short French passage. Talk about what it evokes. Notice how the language works—and use it to express something of your own.
You do not need to know the book or prepare it in advance. I choose a short extract at your level and around a theme that can open a real conversation.
A short passage gives the conversation somewhere to begin.
We may meet a character, a scene, a voice or an idea. You first understand enough to enter the passage, then react to it in your own words.
The aim is not literary analysis, and you are not tested on the book. The extracts are drawn from French writing and from books I select for La Petite Librairie française d’Oxford. You never need to buy or finish the book before the lesson.
From reading a scene to telling your own story
I read aloud a short scene about arriving somewhere new. You listen, then read it, collect expressions for first impressions and talk about a place that mattered to you. You finish by reusing three or four phrases in your own words.
One extract. One conversation. One useful thread of French.
Discover the extract
Listen once, then read a short passage chosen for your level and interests. You only need enough understanding to enter the scene or idea.
Talk about what it opens
React to the character, atmosphere or question. You explain, compare and tell, without having to improvise from nothing.
Notice the language
Keep four or five useful expressions, one sentence pattern and one grammar point that appears naturally in the passage.
Make it your own
Reuse the language to tell a story, express an opinion or connect the passage with your own life. You leave with a concise personal language note.
A private lesson and the weekly program do different jobs.
Choose a one-to-one online lesson if…
- you want a live 50-minute lesson built around one short literary extract and your response;
- you want conversation, vocabulary and grammar to grow from the same context;
- you prefer to book occasionally, with no ongoing commitment;
- you want direct, personal reformulation in real time.
Choose the weekly program if…
- you want a regular rhythm from one week to the next;
- personal writing and written feedback are your priority;
- you want prompts, listening practice and a community space;
- you prefer an ongoing program rather than individual appointments.
Your level shapes the lesson—not your right to speak.
At A2, we may slow down, build clear personal sentences and reuse familiar structures. At B1–B2, we work on retrieval, connection and greater spontaneity. At C1, we can explore nuance, register, rhythm and a more demanding text.
You do not need to diagnose your own level perfectly before booking. A short SimplyBook questionnaire will give me the information I need.
Useful reasons to book
- enjoy French books without turning the lesson into literary analysis;
- discuss culture, characters and ideas with more ease;
- expand active vocabulary through a memorable context;
- understand a grammar point through sentences that actually use it;
- practise telling stories and expressing opinions naturally.
Choose one 50-minute lesson. No package, no preliminary call.
Each 50-minute online lesson costs £40 and is booked separately. SimplyBook will show only the appointments I can actually offer and will ask a few questions about your level, interests and goals before confirming the booking.
SimplyBook shows only the appointments I can genuinely offer. You book and pay for one 50-minute lesson at a time, with no package, subscription or preliminary call. I will send the video-call link separately before the lesson.
Before you book
Do I need a preliminary video call?
No. The short questions in SimplyBook will help me understand your level and aim. Your first paid lesson can simply be your first lesson.
Do I have to buy a package?
No. Lessons are booked one at a time for £40. You decide afterwards whether and when you would like another.
Will the whole lesson be in French?
French is the working language, but the balance depends on your level. A brief explanation in English may be useful when it saves confusion and helps you return to French more confidently.
What do I need technically?
A stable internet connection, a quiet place and a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone. I will send the video-call link separately before the lesson.
Do I need to read the book beforehand?
No. I provide the short extract and we meet it together during the lesson. Knowing the book is never required.
Can I send something before the lesson?
Yes, if a short text, question or situation would help us connect the extract with something you want to express. You can mention it in the booking form, and I will tell you how to send it if needed.