fraites.com

What It Is

Fraites is a French-learning app/course aimed at Portuguese-speaking users. It claims to take learners “from zero to B1,” with a 20-week study plan and a suggested commitment of 30 minutes per day. It is not a traditional live class; instead, it combines video lessons, interactive exercises, FSRS spaced-repetition cards, and an AI conversation partner named Sophie, with a focus on speaking and everyday communication.

Core Curriculum and Teaching Format

The course path is divided into four stages: weeks 1–4 build the basics and lead to a first simple conversation; weeks 5–10 expand everyday topics; weeks 11–16 train basic conversations and tenses; and weeks 17–20 aim for more independent expression. Sophie’s key differentiator is that she only uses vocabulary and rules the learner has already studied, helping beginners avoid being overwhelmed by complex French input too early. Exercises include four FSRS card modes: fill-in-the-blank, pronunciation, ordering, and listening, along with instant pronunciation correction. The page does not show live classes or human 1-on-1 teaching.

Pricing and Certificates

Pricing is relatively transparent: Base costs R$29.90/month and includes the full 20-week course, FSRS cards, 60 minutes of Sophie conversations per month, and the PWA app. Pro costs R$97/month and adds a higher Sophie conversation allowance, advanced pronunciation tracking, priority support, and monthly themed vocabulary. Both plans include a 14-day free trial with no credit card required. As for certificates, the FAQ lists the question “Is there a certificate?”, but the main text does not provide an answer, so it is not possible to confirm whether certification or a course-completion certificate is offered.

Pros and Cons

Its strengths are a focused positioning, a clear learning path, a low entry price, and AI conversations that unlock based on what the learner has already studied, making it friendly for complete beginners. FSRS review and pronunciation feedback also make it more interactive than a simple recorded-video course. The downsides are that the “fluent/B1 in 4 months” claim is fairly marketing-heavy, and results will depend on daily consistency. Teacher information is mainly based on founder Rafael’s personal background, with no visible introduction to a structured curriculum or academic team. The Pro plan also describes “unlimited conversations” while indicating 15 hours/month of audio, so this should be clarified before purchasing.

Who It’s For and Access from China

Fraites is best suited to Portuguese speakers who want to start learning French from scratch and prefer mobile self-study plus AI speaking practice. It is less suitable for learners who need Chinese-language explanations, supervision from human teachers, a formal certificate, or systematic DELF/DALF exam preparation. Access from China, payment methods, and support for local bank cards or platforms are not disclosed, so its availability can only be considered unknown. Alternatives to consider include Duolingo, Babbel, Busuu, italki, Preply, or French courses designed for Chinese-speaking users.