Our Irish Course Levels

Gaelteanga’s classes follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from level A1 to level C2.

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  • Aimed at those who have no knowledge of the Irish language or who know only a few words and phrases.
  • It is not suitable for anyone who has already completed a course at level A1 or who has studied Irish at secondary school.
  • Suitable for those who have undertaken a complete course at level A1.
  • Learners who take this course are able to understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases.
  • They are able to introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where someone lives, people they know and things they have.
  • They can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.
  • In an Irish context, this level usually suits those who did ordinary level Irish in the Leaving Cert.
  • This level is aimed at those who can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance, e.g., very basic personal and family information, local geography, employment.
  • They can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.
  • They can describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.
  • In an Irish context, this level usually suits those who did higher level Irish in the Leaving Cert.
  • Suitable for those who can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.
  • They are comfortable speaking Irish and use the language from time to time – in a social context, for example
  • They can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst talking to native speakers.
  • They can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
  • They can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
  • The topics at this level are more challenging than those covered at lower intermediate level.
  • Aimed at those who can communicate so spontaneously and fluently that a normal conversation with native speakers is easily possible without a great deal of effort on either side.
  • They can express themselves on a wide range of topics in a clear and detailed manner, explain their position on a current issue and indicate the benefits and drawbacks of various options.
  • Those who attend this level have an opportunity to add to their vocabulary and range of idiomatic expressions.
  • There is a greater focus on grammar and writing than in the lower intermediate level courses.
  • Suitable for those who can understand a wide range of challenging, longer texts (both spoken and written) and also grasp implicit meanings.
  • They can express themselves spontaneously and fluently without having to search for words frequently and noticeably.
  • They can use the language effectively and flexibly in their social and professional life or in training and studies.
  • They can make clear, structured and detailed statements on complex topics.
  • Those who attend a class at this level have an opportunity to learn quite complex grammatical rules and add greatly to their vocabulary.

General Irish Courses

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Basic Grammar Course (Level C1)

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The Basic Grammar Course (Level C1) is aimed at people who have a good level of spoken Irish but who wish to learn more grammar and have an opportunity to develop their writing skills.

It will be very helpful for those who have only a limited understanding of the rules of Irish grammar.

The programme is also suitable for those who wish to attend the Advanced Grammar Course (Level C2) in the future but have not yet reached the appropriate standard.

Advanced Grammar Course (Level C2)

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The Advanced Grammar Course (Level C2) is designed for learners with very good spoken Irish who want to improve grammatical accuracy and understand more complex structures.

Authentic material, including articles from magazines and newspapers, is used in the classes, alongside varied activities that help students practise new concepts effectively.

Particular attention is given to the issue of béarlachas (anglicisms).

Both courses are particularly suitable for people who work through Irish – journalists, broadcasters, civil servants and teachers, for example – and for students who are studying Irish as a subject in a third-level college.