Your first tutor is not expecting a TED Talk in Spanish.
If you have been learning with Duolingo and are considering your first private lesson, tell the teacher what you have studied and what you can currently say. You do not need to translate an app score into a formal language level by yourself.
Bring evidence in the form of a simple attempt: introduce yourself, describe your day or explain why you are learning.
Make the introduction useful
Send or bring a short note: “I study with Duolingo. I can ____. I find ____ difficult. I want to use Spanish, French or German for ____.”
Choose a teacher who works with beginners or your current level. Check whether they can explain things in English if you need that support.
Watch their introduction or teaching videos and note a question about their approach. Confirm the available time in your own time zone and understand the full price before booking.
Give the lesson a modest assignment
Ask to work on one short exchange. Try it, receive feedback and try a variation. Leave with a few phrases and a small practice task you understand.
If you feel nervous, say so. You can ask for time to think or for a question to be repeated. Those are useful requests to learn in the language too.
Afterward, evaluate whether the explanations and pace suited you. The first session is a chance to learn about teacher fit as well as vocabulary.
Beginner language. Ambitious purpose.
On Nattive, every paid lesson helps fund free group English teaching through Classroom. We are working toward 100,000 hours for learners who cannot afford private language education.
You can contribute while still working out your first introduction. There is no fluency requirement for participating in the mission.
Your existing study can remain part of your week. Add a lesson if it has a useful job and fits your budget. Bring a simple goal, a working microphone and the language you have so far.