The Berlitz Method has been the foundation of all Berlitz language programs since 1878. Developed by our founder Maximilian Berlitz, it is the world’s first immersive language teaching method—and it revolutionized language education when introduced.
What Is the Berlitz Method?
With the Berlitz Method, you learn a new language naturally. In short: You’ll speak and hear only the target language in your Berlitz course—just like if you were living abroad.
The Berlitz Method is the most effective way to learn a new language. It’s a systematic, goal-oriented approach that incorporates the latest innovations and research in language learning.
Key Principles of the Berlitz Method
- Immersive: Your instructor speaks only in your target language. Lessons are delivered in real-life contexts, with a strong focus on grammar and vocabulary.
- Goal-Oriented: Each lesson has specific learning objectives, achieved through practical tasks—helping you apply the new language immediately.
- Present, Practice, Perform: A three-phase structure helps you absorb and use the language. New content is introduced by your instructor, followed by guided and open-ended practice, and finally application in real-life scenarios.
This immersive experience helps overcome hesitation and builds confidence using the language in everyday situations.
Specially Trained Instructors
Our instructors are extensively trained—not just in language teaching techniques, but also in methods that boost your confidence and motivation while keeping your personal goals in focus.
How Grammar Is Taught
Grammar is always presented in context and reinforced through structured practice. Our instructors ensure a balance between fluency and accuracy.
The Origins of the Berlitz Method
Like many great discoveries, the Berlitz Method began with a mix of coincidence, necessity, and creativity. While teaching in Providence, Maximilian Berlitz hired a young Frenchman named Joly as his assistant—only to discover that Joly didn’t speak a single word of English.
When Berlitz fell seriously ill, he had no choice but to leave his classes in Joly’s hands. He instructed Joly to use gestures and real-life examples to convey meaning, and to rely on context to teach vocabulary.
After six weeks, Berlitz returned, expecting little progress—only to find that the students were more engaged than ever and communicating fluently in French.
Learning from a native speaker without translation had clearly accelerated their progress. And so, the Berlitz Method was born.
Since then, the method has been constantly refined to reflect the latest pedagogical insights. Today, it includes needs assessments, digital materials, and e-learning options.
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