Swedish Little By Little

My Instagram

Welcome!

My name is Gastón, and I'm a Swedish teacher. Since 2020, I've worked for one of Sweden's largest adult learning associations in Stockholm, and it has been an absolute blast connecting with so many students and studying Swedish together!


Starting 1st of May, I'll continue guiding students on their Swedish learning journey, but with my own company, both through private tutoring and group classes, as well as through social media via my Instagram and blog.


I'm passionate about my job—I genuinely am— and I'm here to help you reach your goals, whether you're just starting out or looking to take your Swedish to the next level.


So stay tuned – more coming on the 1st of May.


I'd love to be a part of your journey!

Language learning...

...is much more than just memorizing words and grammar rules—it is, primarily, about finding one's voice and connecting with people in a more meaningful way. For me, teaching Swedish isn’t just about the language; it’s about the people. Every student has their own story, background, and motivation for learning Swedish, and that’s what makes this job so special.


My goal is to guide you, encourage you, and help you feel at home in Swedish.

I'm here to help you!

  • As a certified teacher of Swedish as a second language, I know how to break down complex concepts into manageable and logical bits, making the learning process smoother and more accessible.
  • As someone who has been in your shoes and learnt Swedish as an adult, I know the challenges you face. But I also know the satisfaction of breaking through those barriers and feeling confident in a new language. I’m here to help you achieve that!
  • As a passionate language learner myself, I know the power of persistence and practice. I understand the ups and downs of learning something new, and I’m here to help you stay motivated and make steady progress.


Let's get in touch—I’d love to hear your story.

Meet your teacher

Hej! Jag heter Gastón. Trevligt att träffas!

Hi! My name is Gastón. Nice to meet you!


I'm originally from Córdoba, Argentina, but I've called Sweden home for over ten years. I have a Master's degree in architecture and a Bachelor's degree in Nordic languages at the Université de Strasbourg in France. When I moved to Sweden, in 2015, I got a Teacher Degree with a specialization in Swedish as a second language and Japanese at Stockholm University and Nihon Daigaku in Tokyo, Japan.


I share a cozy apartment in Årsta—a green and peaceful neighborhood just south of Södermalm—with my partner and our cat, Ólaf.


Languages are my passion! In addition to Swedish, I speak Spanish, French, English, Italian, and Portuguese, along with some German, Japanese, and Slovene. I'm always eager to learn more! When I'm not teaching or picking up a new language, you’ll find me reading, watching TV series and movies, or diving into something new and interesting.


I have a blog filled with valuable resources to help you learn Swedish: Swedish Little By Little, THE blog. Over the years, I've dedicated a lot of time and effort to creating a comprehensive yet accessible grammar guide that covers everything you need to know to master the basics of Swedish. There, you'll find detailed explanations, example sentences, charts, rules, exceptions, special cases, and much more—all organized and color-coded for your convenience. Enjoy!


Oh, and I'm also the creator of the Instagram account @swedishlittlebylittle, where I upload content about the Swedish language: useful vocabulary, grammar, tips, learning resources, you name it. Make sure to follow me there! :)

My courses

Whether you're just starting out or eager to take your fluency to the next level, my online courses offer the perfect blend of fun, structure, support, and community. Taught via Zoom with carefully designed lessons and personal guidance, you'll make steady and meaningful progress in your Swedish skills!

Private tutoring

Get a fully customized learning experience focused on your needs, from pronunciation and grammar to vocabulary and speaking confidence. A valuable investment in your Swedish journey!

Group classes

In my Zoom group classes, we practice all key language skills: speaking, reading, writing, and listening, while exploring new grammar and learning about Swedish culture. Join a small, supportive group of learners on a similar journey, and enjoy a fun, safe space to grow together!

Private tutoring, one-to-one

Are you interested in one-to-one Swedish lessons?


  • Send me an e-mail with the following details:
    1. How long have you been studying Swedish?
    2. How would you describe your current level in Swedish (beginner, intermediate, advanced)?
    3. Where have you studied Swedish (at a school, self-study, with a private tutor)?
    4. When did you last study Swedish (was it a while ago or are you currently studying)?
    5. What resources (textbooks, apps, websites, etc) have you used for your studies?
    6. How often would you be interested in taking private lessons? Once, twice, three, four times a week?
    7. How long should each session be (1, 2, 3, 4 study hours)? [1 study hour = 45 minutes]
    8. Is there anything specific that you would like us to focus on during our lessons?
  • We'll book a trial lesson (30 minutes), free of charge.
  • If you want to continue, we'll find a time slot that fits both our schedules.
  • You can choose between two options: 
    1. Pay per lesson
    2. Buy a lesson package (discounts available based on the number of hours)


Pace

We can meet as often as you want us to.

  • Once a week
  • Twice a week
  • Three times a week
  • Five times a week


Time

I suggest that each lesson lasts three study hours (2 hours and 15 minutes [1 study hour = 45 minutes]). This is, according to me and most teachers/educators, the perfect amount of time for a productive study session—you get to ease in with a warm-up like a short discussion or game, review homework if needed, dive into a new topic, take a short 10-minute break, explore some new grammar, reinforce vocabulary, and finish with the satisfying feeling that you've made real progress in Swedish. Think of it like a workout: too short, and it feels rushed; too long, and it’s exhausting. But when it’s just right—when it’s lagom!—you leave feeling accomplished and energized. The following time slots usually work for most people:

  • Morning: 9.00–11.15
  • Early afternoon: 12.15–14.30
  • Afternoon: 15.00–17.15
  • Evening: 18.00–20.15


Homework

After each lesson, I'll give you some homework for you to practice what we've learned in class and prepare for our next lesson. Homework is not mandatory—it's up to you to decide!— but it's something I really encourage all my students to do in order to be able to make more steady progress.


Class notes

You'll have access to my Google Drive, where I upload all our class notes (what we do in class, the new words, new grammar, expressions, notes, homework...), so that you can review at your own pace.


Do you want to know more? Send me an e-mail!

Group classes

If you and some friends, acquaintances or colleagues want to take a course together, send me an-email! We can discuss our options.


In my Live Zoom group classes, we practice all key language skills: speaking, reading, writing, and listening, while exploring new grammar and learning about Swedish culture. Join a small, supportive group of learners on a similar journey, and enjoy a fun, safe space to grow together!


MORE ABOUT MY GROUP CLASSES


Textbook & Exercise book

In my group classes, we use the Rivstart series. Rivstart is a monolingual beginner and intermediate course material for Swedish as a foreign language, designed for those who want to learn Swedish both in and outside of Sweden. It is also well-suited for self-study. Combining humor and seriousness, it provides students with excellent opportunities to develop their skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking Swedish.


The course material includes a variety of text types and engaging tasks with focus on communication. Its design allows students to easily navigate different content areas—grammar, facts about the Swedish language, useful words and phrases, and information about Sweden. The content and grammatical progression are based on the level descriptions in the Council of Europe’s CEFR scale.


Rivstart consists of a textbook, a workbook, and an online teacher’s guide. Additionally, it offers extensive digital supplementary material, including self-correcting exercises, audio files, and answer keys. The digital book is an exact replica of the printed book and is not interactive.


Levels

The Rivstart series covers all levels, from complete beginner to proficient user. I’ve been using these books for years, and I truly believe they’re the best resource available for Swedish learners. (And no, I’m not sponsored—I just think they’re fantastic and have consistently proven their value!)


The first book, Rivstart A1+A2 (the yellow one), covers the A1 and A2 levels. The second book, Rivstart B1+B2 (the blue/pink one), takes you through B1 and the very beginning of B2. The third book, Rivstart B2+C1 (the orange one), completes B2 and introduces C1. Most students who complete all three books don’t need further lessons—by that point, their Swedish is strong enough to stand on its own!


  • A1: Basic user (starter / beginner) – Rivstart A1+A2 [chapters 1–10]
  • A2: Basic user (elementary / pre-intermediate)– Rivstart A1+A2 [chapters 11–20]
  • B1: Independent user (intermediate)– Rivstart B1+B2 [chapters 1–6]
  • B1+: Independent user (post-intermediate)– Rivstart B1+B2 [chapters 7–12]
  • B2–: Independent user (pre-upper intermediate)– Rivstart B1+B2 [chapters 13–18]
  • B2: Independent user (upper intermediate)– Rivstart B2+C1 [chapters 1–4]
  • B2+: Independent user (post-upper intermediate)– Rivstart B2+C1 [chapters 5–8]
  • C1–: Proficient user (pre-advanced)– Rivstart B2+C1 [chapters 9–12]


* Each level is roughly 60 study hours [1 study hour = 45 minutes]



Pace

We can meet as often as you want us to.

  • Once a week
  • Twice a week
  • Three times a week
  • Five times a week


Time

I suggest that each lesson lasts three study hours (2 hours and 15 minutes [1 study hour = 45 minutes]). This is, according to me and most teachers/educators, the perfect amount of time for a productive study session—you get to ease in with a warm-up like a short discussion or game, review homework if needed, dive into a new topic, take a short 10-minute break, explore some new grammar, reinforce vocabulary, and finish with the satisfying feeling that you've made real progress in Swedish. Think of it like a workout: too short, and it feels rushed; too long, and it’s exhausting. But when it’s just right—when it’s lagom!—you leave feeling accomplished and energized. The following time slots usually work for most people:

  • Morning: 9.00–11.15
  • Early afternoon: 12.15–14.30
  • Afternoon: 15.00–17.15
  • Evening: 18.00–20.15


Homework

After each lesson, I'll give you some homework for you to practice what we've learned in class and prepare for our next lesson. Homework is not mandatory—it's up to you to decide!— but it's something I really encourage all my students to do in order to be able to make more steady progress.


Class notes

You'll have access to my Google Drive, where I upload all our class notes (what we do in class, the new words, new grammar, expressions, notes, homework...), so that you can review at your own pace.


Something doesn't really suit your needs?

No problem! Of course, all of this (days, time, homework, materials...) can be adapted to your specific needs. Just let me know if there's something in particular you'd like to discuss or change, and we'll find a solution together.


  • Send me an e-mail with the following details:
    1. How long have you been studying Swedish?
    2. How would you describe your current level in Swedish (beginner, intermediate, advanced)?
    3. Where have you studied Swedish (at a school, self-study, with a private tutor)?
    4. When did you last study Swedish (was it a while ago or are you currently studying)?
    5. What resources (textbooks, apps, websites, etc) have you used for your studies?
    6. Which pace suits you the best? Once, twice, five times a week?
    7. Which time slot suits you the best? Morning, early afternoon, afternoon, evening?
    8. Is there anything specific that you would like us to focus on during our lessons?
  • We'll book a trial lesson (30 minutes), free of charge. This will help me determine your level and help you choose the right course.
  • Group courses are payed in advance.
  • Discounts may be available depending on the group size—the more friends or colleagues you bring to the course, the lower the price per person!


    Do you want to know more? Send me an e-mail!

    My lessons

    My lessons are carefully and meticulously planned. Always.


    For every single topic we explore together, I'll always provide a detailed and thorough planning. With clear structure and visual aids to make learning more engaging and accessible, you'll always know exactly what we're working on.


    Needless to say, as my student you have access to all my materials, so you can review and practice at home until our next session.



    Why study Swedish with me?

    I have the

    experience.

    I’m a certified Swedish teacher from Stockholm University with years of experience at one of Sweden’s largest adult education centers. I’ve taught all levels, from beginners to advanced students, both in small and large groups, online and in-person. I adapt to your learning style and pace, helping you progress with confidence.

    I know what it's like to struggle with Swedish.

    I’ve been in your shoes! I started learning Swedish as an adult. What started as a hobby turned into a passion, leading me to pursue a career in teaching Swedish as a second language. Having experienced the challenges myself, I know how to overcome them and can offer practical shortcuts and strategies to help you do the same. 

    I'm a proper

    language nerd!

    My first language is Spanish, Swedish my second. Besides, I’m fluent in French and English, and speak conversational Italian, Portuguese, German, Catalan, and Slovene. I have also explored languages like Japanese, Icelandic, Dutch, and many more... just for fun! Learning many different languages has given me unique insights into the challenges learners face and how to overcome them. I love sharing these tips with my students to make Swedish more accessible and enjoyable.

    Want to know more?

    Send me an email... I’ll be happy to provide all the details!

    Levels – from zero to hero!

    My courses follow the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). The CEFR is a guideline used to describe achievements of learners of foreign languages across Europe and, increasingly, in other countries.


    There are three levels (A: basic user, B: independent user, and C: proficient user), each divided into two sublevels. These levels are not equally "big", though – think of it more like a pyramid where A1 is the tip and C2 is the base, and where each level is slightly bigger than the previous one. In other words, students usually need more study hours to go from B1 to B2, than they usually need to go from A1 to A2. This is why I offer one course for A1 and A2, but two courses for B1 (B1 & B1+), and three levels for B2 (B2–, B2 & B2+). Once students get to the C1 level, they usually stop taking courses, since their Swedish is already good enough to manage almost any kind of situation.


    • A1: Basic user (starter / beginner)
    • A2: Basic user (elementary / pre-intermediate)
    • B1: Independent user (intermediate)
      • B1+: Independent user (post-intermediate)
      • B2–: Independent user (pre-upper intermediate)
    • B2: Independent user (upper intermediate)
      • B2+: Independent user (post-upper intermediate)
      • C1–: Proficient user (pre-advanced)
    • C1: Proficient user (advanced)


    Besides, this is how most textbooks are structured, no matter the language you're learning. It's actually quite a practical tool to organize your language journey and keep track of your progress!

    What to expect from my courses?

    • Supportive and fun learning atmosphere with a certified and experienced instructor
    • Carefully organized and fast-paced lessons, structured to help you progress quickly yet surely towards your goals
    • Thorough grammar explanations to understand how Swedish works, and exercises to practice
    • Plenty of opportunities to speak, both with me and with your classmates
    • A safe place to ask all your questions and clear your doubts
    • Access to my lesson notes both before and after each class, so you can prepare and review at home
    • Group discussions and pair work in Zoom breakout rooms
    • Real-life conversations and role-playing activities
    • Engaging listening and pronunciation exercises
    • Short but practical reading and writing tasks
    • Self-study with recommended resources to keep improving

    What my students say

    Gastón's teaching methods have truly blown me away. Worth every penny!

    "The structure and pace of the lessons were very well suited to me, and the vast resources available were incredibly useful. His classes have given me a passion for learning and understanding Swedish and improving myself in the process. Gastón has a rare talent for teaching, organization, and understanding different people. Irrespective of learning a language, I think he may be the best teacher I've ever had."

    Gastón is one of the best teachers I've ever had.

    "His clear and simple explanations, combined with his use of colors when taking notes, made it so much easier to remember and understand Swedish. After just two weeks, I could understand spoken Swedish much better! I also appreciated the relaxed and supportive atmosphere he created, where no one felt pressured or uncomfortable. Truly an exceptional teacher!"

    Gastón is an incredible teacher! His passion for languages and teaching shines through in every class.

    "I loved how he started each lesson with a fun game to help us practice speaking and break the ice. He explains grammar in a way that makes everything click. I learned so much and enjoyed every moment of the class. Highly recommend!"

    Ready to start your Swedish journey?

    Want to study Swedish with me? Get in touch, and let’s get started!

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