Cúrsa Gaeilge COGG for teachers in post-primary Gaeltacht and all-Irish schools

Beginners 2 (A2) This level is suitable for those who have already attended a beginners class or who are able to communicate at a basic level in Irish (they can greet people, for example, and introduce themselves). The material covered in the beginners class is revised at the beginning of the course but the class then progresses to other topics not covered at the lower level. As with the beginners level, the emphasis is on developing speaking and listening skills and grammar is taught in context for the most part.

Intermediate 1 (B1) This level is intended for those who have studied Irish at school, perhaps a good number of years ago, who understand a great deal of the language but have had few opportunities to use it in recent years. Some basic language is taught at the beginning of the course, but the class then progresses at a faster pace than a lower level class would. The emphasis is on developing speaking and listening skills but students are also given the opportunity to read and to write the language. Grammar is taught in context, as it is required.

Intermediate 2 (B2) Suitable for people who are comfortable speaking Irish and who use the language from time to time – in a social context, for example. Participants have an opportunity to extend their vocabulary and to learn more about Irish grammar. The topics discussed in class are more challenging than those covered at the lower intermediate level and there is also a greater emphasis on reading.

Accuracy in Irish 1 Aimed at those who have a very good standard of spoken Irish but whose knowledge of grammar is quite limited. There is a focus in class on basic grammatical concepts and on developing participants’ reading and writing skills. Authentic material (e.g. newspaper and magazine articles) is used and there is a wide range of activities in the class. Suitable for those who work through the medium of Irish, e.g. civil servants and teachers.