HISTORY

The idea of starting a Mongolian language school was conceived in early 1996 by a group of teachers and tutors.  Permission to run the school was granted by the Mongolian Ministry of Science and Education in that same year.

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THE STAFF

Friends Language School recruits teachers with qualifications in language and/or linguistics. The majority of our teachers have at least several years experience teaching foreign students.  The school strongly encourages its teachers to continue in the educational process towards higher degrees, greater teaching proficiency, and other related studies.  We have teachers who are skilled in German, English, Japanese, French and Russian.

Meet the Teachers                                                                                                                                                            

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 CURRICULUM

 The program of study is based on a variety of source materials and application may vary according to the skills and goals of each student.  Teaching materials, textbooks, and dictionaries have been designed and written for foreigners by qualified linguists and teachers. These are available through the school or can be bought at one of the various book stores located throughout the city.  The curriculum includes specific revision periods, practical application sessions, group excursions, and activities.  Short term survival courses are available for periods of 2 weeks to 3 months or more. Full-time courses are also available. 

*If needed, the school is able to assist full-time language students in getting a student residence visa. 

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Who Can Learn

Friends Language School caters to all ages of foreign learners who have a desire to learn the Mongolian language.  Casual long-term learners are well catered to and very welcome. This often suits those who need to work.  Children can learn as a subject integrated within their normal studies.  Those who have a student visa are required to complete a minimum of 800 hours over 40 weeks.

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SCHOOL YEAR AND CLASS TIMES

 Friends Language School year runs from the 1^st of September to the 30^th of June.  Classes are held Monday through Friday with morning and afternoon sessions offered.  No classes are held on weekends or significant Mongolian and foreign holidays.  Learners wishing to study during the summer break in July and August can do so after making special arrangements.  Lesson times may also change according to the dictates of the student’s work schedule and the duties required by his or her organization.  If needed, teachers are also available to give lessons at the student’s home or work place. 

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ACTIVITIES

 Extra curricular activities are also offered in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.   The school organizes these activities to which all students, no matter what level of involvement, are invited.  This gives further opportunity for the students to meet with each other and interact with the school staff in a relaxed and informal setting.  These activities are not compulsory.  Such activities in the past have included:  Basketball, volleyball, table tennis, chess tournaments, hiking in the countryside, sledding, and visits to interesting sites in and around UB.  Unscheduled special events and trips are also possible to organize, especially during the summer months.

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TEACHING  METHODOLOGY

Our philosophy is to use a one-on-one tutorial approach which is flexible enough to cater to the individual student’s requirements and abilities.  The student then has the benefit of hearing and learning to speak Mongolian in a natural conversational environment with a variety of different teachers who come from all parts of Mongolia.  Classes for two, three or more learners can be arranged if desired.

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AIMS AND GOALS

1. Facilitate language learning
2. Enhance the experience of living in Mongolia
3. Provide insight into Mongolian culture, customs and tradition
4. To enrich the condition for cross cultural exchange. 

         The goal for each student is quite singularly communication.  This means listening and understanding as well as speaking and being understood.  Only in this way are ideas, ideals, and principles shared and accurately communicated.  Therefore, “Friends” school is dedicated to the commitment of enabling each language learner to achieve their communication goals to the best of their ability.

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FEES

The fees are based on a per lesson amount and total tuition costs may vary with each student according to the number of classes requested.  We strive to keep the cost as low and competitive as possible.  One session lasts for ninety minutes. 

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A "practical" lesson

David and Lhagvatsetseg

Cashmere combing lesson

Chess Tournament

Lesson in the snow

Summer outing

Winter outing

Trip to Bogd mountain