All about Essential French Grammar Explained in English (A1 Beginner)
At The Francophone Collective, we believe that grammar shouldn’t feel like a barrier. It should feel like a bridge—one that connects learners with the richness of the French language without intimidation or confusion. That’s why we created Essential French Grammar Explained in English (A1 Beginner): a grammar guide that speaks to English speakers in plain, precise terms.
Why This Book Exists
There are many French grammar books out there—but surprisingly few are structured by CEFR levels, and even fewer explain grammar entirely in English. We noticed a gap: most books either assume prior knowledge or are written with overly technical explanations that alienate new learners.
Ours is the only French grammar series of its kind that combines native French educator insight with native English editorial clarity, guiding readers step by step in their own language.
It is printed on white paper to reduce the likelihood of your pen ink smudging through the next page.
Who It’s For
This book is for absolute beginners and false beginners—learners who want a serious foundation in grammar but who aren’t yet ready for immersion-style instruction. Whether you’re self-studying, brushing up after years away from the classroom, or just beginning your journey, this book was written with you in mind.
What You’ll Learn
The book is structured into 21 clear, progressive chapters covering essential A1 grammar, including:
- Definite and indefinite articles (le, la, un, une)
- Regular and irregular present tense conjugations
- Common verb structures like aller + infinitive
- Negative sentences, reflexive verbs, question formation, possessive adjectives, and more
Each chapter includes:
- A simple explanation in English
- Numerous examples with translations
- Practice exercises that reinforce what you’ve just learned
- An answer key for immediate feedback
It’s everything you need to gain confidence in the building blocks of French grammar—without second-guessing yourself.
What Makes It Different
Unlike many grammar books, we don’t translate concepts into French before you’re ready. We explain everything in English—clearly, carefully, and without jargon. The book was written by experienced French educators and then edited by native English speakers to ensure every sentence makes sense to a beginner. Every example is there for a reason, and every exercise is designed to help you move forward.
Designed for Real Progress
Each chapter builds on the last. You’ll begin with articles and basic noun gender, and gradually move into verb conjugations, sentence structure, and everyday grammar functions. By the end of the book, you’ll be able to write full paragraphs, understand essential sentence patterns, and read basic texts with far more clarity.
It’s not just about memorisation—it’s about understanding how French works, in your own language.
Buy it through Amazon here.
