First Finnish

Welcome to Finland and welcome to First Finnish course, an introductory Finnish language course designed specifically for travelers planning to explore Finland. The course instructor is a native Finnish speaker, ensuring an authentic and natural learning experience. This course requires no prior knowledge of Finnish and focuses on providing you with practical language skills and cultural insights to help you feel confident navigating everyday interactions in Finland. Through interactive lessons, you’ll learn essential vocabulary, basic phrases, and cultural nuances, ensuring a more enjoyable and immersive travel experience.

We will begin the course with A1.1 level studies and progress up to A2.2 level.

In the descriptions of language proficiency levels, the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) are used: A1-A2-B1-B2-C1-C2.

A – Basic Language User
A1.1. Mastery of Basic Language Skills (e.g., a few learned phrases)
A1.2. Developing Basic Language Skills (e.g., simple communication on very basic matters)
A1.3. Functional Basic Language Skills (e.g., foundation of social interaction)
A2.1. Early Stage of Basic Proficiency (e.g., broader ability for social interaction and communication on basic matters)
A2.2. Developing Basic Proficiency (e.g., ability to participate more actively in communication, ability to narrate)

Whether you’re staying for a short visit or planning a longer trip or gain A2.2 level skills, this course will equip you with the foundations to make the most of your time in Finland!

Practical exercises in the course are independent of time and place. The course also includes assignments to be submitted, which deepen your language skills.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Greetings and Goodbyes: Begin your journey by learning common Finnish greetings, goodbyes, and essential polite expressions like “thank you” and “excuse me.” These phrases will help you make a positive impression right from the start.
2. Asking Questions and Simple Phrases: Learn how to ask fundamental questions such as “Where is…?” or “How much does this cost?” This module equips you with phrases for daily communication, including asking for assistance when needed.
3. Numbers and Prices: Get comfortable with Finnish numbers and currency expressions. Practice asking about and understanding prices—skills that will come in handy when shopping or paying for services.
4. Directions: Find your way around Finnish cities and towns by mastering directional vocabulary and simple phrases for asking and giving directions.
5. Food Vocabulary and Restaurant Scenarios: Whether you’re ordering a coffee or having a meal, this module will familiarize you with essential food-related vocabulary and help you navigate Finnish restaurant customs.
6. Common Phrases and Small Talk: Understand basic conversational phrases that make interactions friendlier. Practice small talk for situations like discussing the weather, which can help break the ice with locals.
7. Finnish Cultural Courtesies and Practical Situations: Finnish culture values respect for personal space and quietness. Learn cultural norms and polite behaviors to make your interactions in Finland even smoother.
8. Using Public Transportation: Gain confidence in navigating Finland’s public transportation system by learning vocabulary related to buses, trains, and tickets, making your travels more convenient.
9. Shopping and Using Money in Finland: Familiarize yourself with shopping terminology and payment methods commonly used in Finland. Practice phrases for asking about prices, discounts, and receipts.
10. Weather and Small Talk in Finland: Get to know Finnish weather terms and basic small talk phrases that locals use, giving you a way to connect with people while discussing the ever-changing Finnish weather.
11. Finnish Traditions and Holidays: Learn about important Finnish holidays and cultural traditions, including Christmas, Midsummer, and May Day, enriching your understanding of Finnish society and customs.
12. Finnish Nature and Outdoor Activities: Embrace Finland’s love for nature by learning vocabulary related to outdoor activities, such as hiking and berry-picking. You’ll be ready to explore Finland’s natural beauty with confidence.

By the end of this course, you’ll be equipped with the essential Finnish skills to comfortably navigate and appreciate your Finnish journey.

Join us to unlock the secrets of Finnish language and culture and enhance your travel experience in Finland!