ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides a beginner's course in Portuguese suitable for self-study, using a practical and modern method. It consists of thirteen lessons containing dialogues, reading comprehensions and exercises covering essential grammar points and vocabulary. Any differences of grammar and vocabulary found in Brazilian Portuguese are highlighted, and the language used is kept simple but idiomatic. The dialogues and reading texts present grammar and vocabulary in a systematic manner and each lesson is built around everyday situations such as visiting the bank or buying a drink in a cafe. The purpose of the course is to provide the student with a sound base of conversational Portuguese in a relatively short period of time, sufficient to cope in general holiday or business situations. All the grammatical points raised are summarized in the compact reference grammar section at the back of the book.
