For complete beginners · SL only

IB French ab initio Tutoring in Hong Kong

Aim for a 6 or 7 in IB French ab initio. Our experienced native French tutors take you from zero to exam-ready over a structured two-year programme.

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📖 What is IB French ab initio?

IB French ab initio is a two-year Standard Level (SL) course designed for absolute beginners. No previous French is required — the course builds your vocabulary, grammar and communication skills from day one, alongside a genuine understanding of French-speaking cultures.

Who It's For

Students with little or no previous French
IB Diploma students (SL)
Learners who want to add a new language

Course at a Glance

Two-year course
Standard Level (SL) only
Around 150 teaching hours

Native French tutor teaching ab initio beginners in a small class

🎯 What You'll Learn

The course is organised around the IB's five prescribed themes, with everything anchored in real, everyday contexts.

Identities

Self, family and personal relationships

Experiences

Daily routines, holidays and festivals

Human Ingenuity

Arts, entertainment and technology

Social Organization

School, community and work

Sharing the Planet

Environment, cities and climate

Communication

Everyday speaking and writing

📝 Assessment Structure

ab initio assessment combines external written papers with an internal oral, covering every skill.

Paper 1: Writing

25%

One writing task assessing written production

Paper 2: Listening

25%

Assessing listening comprehension

Paper 2: Reading

25%

Assessing reading comprehension

Individual Oral

25%

A one-to-one conversation with the teacher

IB French students practising French listening with headphones — Listening practice — Paper 2

Teenage students speaking French in an interactive class — Speaking practice — individual oral prep

External assessment accounts for 75%, with the internal assessment (individual oral) making up the remaining 25%.

🎯 ab initio Classes — Enrol Now

Small-group classes led by experienced native French tutors. Limited spots — pick yours and book today.

High-school students learning French together in a small group

Next ab initio cohort forming now

Spots are limited — reserve your place or join the waitlist and we'll be in touch as soon as the next session is confirmed. Want to start sooner? Book a private lesson or a free consultation instead.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is IB French ab initio right for me?

If you have little or no previous French, ab initio is designed for you. If you have studied French for more than about six months, IB Language B may be a better fit.

Can I take ab initio at Higher Level?

No — ab initio is offered at Standard Level (SL) only.

How is ab initio assessed?

External written papers (writing, listening and reading) account for 75%, with an individual oral making up the remaining 25%.

What grade can I achieve?

With consistent work, most ab initio students aim for grades 6–7.

How many hours of study are needed?

The IB recommends around 150 teaching hours over two years, and our classes support you all the way.

Our Students Attend

French International School (FIS) Hong Kong International School (HKIS) Singapore International School (SIS) German Swiss International School (GSIS) Canadian International School Harrow International School

See how we support French International School (FIS) students