About Barbara
Having fallen in love with French as a child, Barbara’s buoyant enthusiasm led her to receive her M.A. in French Language and Literature from the University of California, Berkeley. Although she has taught in many middle schools, high schools, colleges, and privately, Barbara’s real passion is to teach one-on-one or in small groups, as in this way she can tailor her curricula and classes to each student’s individual needs and goals.
Passion for French
Barbara’s vast knowledge of and skill in the French language has been shaped by her expansive education, decades-long teaching experience, and her having studied, lived, and traveled in France.
She attained her M.A. in French Language and Literature, University of California, Berkeley. The state of California has additionally granted her a (lifetime) credential to teach in all California community colleges. She has taught for over 30 years on every scholastic level and has a decades-long, thriving practice in teaching French to adults.
Native English Speaker
As a native English speaker, Barbara provides deep understanding of her English-speaking students’ challenges in learning the French language, and in sounding as close as possible to native French people.
Barbara, out of love for the “music” of the French language, in her M.A. work in French at the University of California, had the fortune to study with the great Jeanne Varney Pleasants, author and master teacher of French pronunciation and articulation. Subsequently and into the present, Barbara has brought Dr. Pleasants’ methodology into her classes and has seen many of her students excel in speaking with natural and authentic French pronunciation and intonation.
Château Azay-le-Rideau - Vallée de la Loire - mon château favori
(Loire Valley - my favorite castle)
Teaching Philosophy
Barbara prides herself on her ability to empower her students, create a non-judgmental learning environment, and her joyful and lighthearted way of interacting with students.
When possible, she brings each student’s main interests and favorite activities (eg., sports, music, etc.) into French conversation. Students thereby express themselves more freely and enjoyably.
Additionally, Barbara facilitates learning by discovering each student’s individual learning style (of which there are four). This helps students to feel “at home” and engaged.
Finally, Barbara emphasizes clarity of presentation of material, explaining concepts thoroughly, and repeatedly, if necessary. Students thereby feel secure and ready to move forward.
Marché en Plein Air
See how Barbara can Tailor French Lessons 2U
Testimonials
Barbara was born to teach French. She is extremely experienced and knowledgeable. She approaches teaching with a lot of enthusiasm and passion. Best of all, she tailors the curriculum to address my personal goals and challenges- something an app could never do! She is patient, kind and empowering. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants to learn French in a supportive, non-threatening environment.
K.W.
Marketing Research Consultant; Lake Tahoe, CA
