The Program

Research confirms that knowledge of a second language strengthens first-language skills and that the ability to speak two or more languages generally enhances reasoning and problem solving skills, as well as creative-thinking skills.  Learning a second language not only strengthens students' ability to communicate, but also develops their capacity to understand and respect other cultures.  In this way, second-language learning prepares students to participate more effectively in the workplace and in the global economy, and provides them with a distinct advantage in a number of careers, both in Canada and internationally. 

THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM: FSL — EXTENDED FRENCH, GRADES 4–8; FRENCH IMMERSION, GRADES 1–8, 2001 http://www.edu.gov.on.ca

 

The Grade Two French Program offers the skills needed to effectively communicate in French. This is done through oral and written communication and a variety of reading comprehension activities.  These three strands of effective communication combined, offer an interesting and purposeful French education for your child.

 

Assessment

Your child will participate in a variety of written, reading and oral activities. Written Communication is based on themes and vocabulary introduced in class.  Reading activities will take place daily and will compliment the written themes.  Oral Communication consists of group discussions and participation in French in response to simple, repetitive question and answer type activities, as well as daily calendar routines.  The children will additionally be learning simple songs to help with the acquisition of the French language. These three strands are formally assessed in Grade Two.

 

 

 

The Learning Journey...

 

The learning journey begins in the classroom and continues at home and in your child's daily life experiences through play and exploration. They learn best with your support at home too. Find out how we can all be a part of your child's journey through the French culture.

 

Your role in learning French
Every parent has an important role in the learning process. Your child has a better chance of success when you get involved in their education. Even if you speak little or no French, there are ways to help your child with their French. Asking questions, staying informed and checking schoolwork are all ways to help your child achieve success.  Finding out what your child is learning about and why they are learning about it, can help to improve their educational experiences in French.


                                                             

The role of students in learning French
Students also have responsibilities that will strengthen and grow throughout their schooling.  With their accomplishments come a sense of pride. They can see the results of their patience and their hard work in their futuristic goals. Each student is encouraged to try their best and persist in their work, ask questions for clarification and show their commitment to their learning through active listening and participation.

 

The role of the teacher

There are many advantages of speaking French. It is important that children know the value of learning French. It allows your child to develop their understanding and appreciation of the French culture and increases their chances in a global labour market. My priority is to help your child develop the skills to use French with confidence. Skills which can be later built upon and used throughout their journey of language learning.  I will provide a safe and encouraging environment where your child will have many opportunities to use French in the classroom. Through song, stories, readings, discussions and presentations, your child will be exposed to different ways of learning the French language.

 

(The Role of...Adapted from: THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM: FSL - EXTENDED FRENCH, GRADES 4-8, FRENCH IMMERSION, GRADES 1-8, 2001 http://www.edu.gov.on.ca)    

 

                                                     

                                                               

 

 

Resources

Here are two sites that can help you and your child throughout your journey through the French language.

Parents as Partners in Educationhttp://www.peopleforeducation.ca/profile/parents-partenaires-en-education/This site helps parents connect. PPE regularly organizes interactive forums in various parts of the province in which all parents of children attending French-language schools in Ontario are invited to participate. They can order resources on a variety of topics and learn how to raise children in a bilingual home.

TVO: The Franco-Ontarian Televisionhttp://www3.tfo.org/This site offers a variety of multimedia resources, including educational programs for your child.