Weekend ‘crash’ courses in a foreign language: who are these suitable for?

1. People with impending travel plans who can’t do an evening course

Many people going abroad on vacation or business opt to do some language training before they go, even if it’s just to learn the basics. For some people, however, evening courses that involve a two-hour session every week simply aren’t a viable option, whether it’s for work, family or social reasons. Equally, if travel plans are last-minute, it may be that you simply don’t have time to complete a 10 or 5 week course prior to your departure. In each of these cases, a weekend ‘crash’ course is ideal.

2. Anyone going overseas on a one–off trip to a foreign country

There are many instances when people find themselves heading to a country that they are unlikely to visit again, and in which they are perhaps even not too interested. Rather than committing to a 10-week course learning some of the local language, a weekend course offers a great way to pick up the basics without having to devote too much time to it.

3. People who have learnt some of the language before, but are looking for a short revision course

Weekend courses are currently held at beginners Level 1, and as such make a good refresher course for someone who has previously learned the basics of the language but since forgotten.

4. People on a tight budget who need a basic course with face-to-face tutoring

Everyone has a different style of learning, and whilst some people are more than happy to invest in a phrasebook or CD course to get to grips with the basics of a language, this isn’t an effective method for all. Some people need to learn in a classroom environment for it to sink in, but one obvious drawback with this is that it can be more expensive. Weekend courses, however, start from just $149 and can offer a much more affordable option than a longer course aimed at beginners.

5. People who are looking to learn useful language for real-life situations

The great thing about weekend crash courses is that they focus on language that you can use in real-life situations, not language that is reserved for academic forums. The concise nature of weekend courses means that they are expressly designed to cover the most important language aspects for those traveling and on vacation, and not to dwell on anything that won’t be of particular use.

Weekend crash courses are currently available in French, Spanish and German at our New York Tribeca center. Courses take place from 10am – 2.30pm, with a 30 minute break in the middle. Please visit the Cactus Language Courses North America website for further information on prices and start dates, and to test your level.