The LFI program offers students an effective and supportive way to learn French, beginning in Grade 6.
Students are immersed in French within the classroom. French is used for meaningful communication and for instructionin the subject (content) areas including math, science, social studies, fine arts, physical education and French language arts. Students do not receive English Language Arts or ELL support in Grade 6.
Students in the program achieve a level of learning in all subject areas equivalent to that achieved by students in the English program. The first few months of grade 6 are focused mainly on language acquisition.
Once in grade seven, English Language Arts is reintroduced into the program; however, the majority of the teaching still happens in French. The LFI program is currently offered in two °µÍřTV elementary schools; James Whiteside and John Diefenbaker. Transportation must be arranged by parents and is not provided by the district.
The vast majority of students who have enrolled in LFI have parents who do not understand French.
As parents you can;
- Encourage your child, especially during the initial fall term
- Have a look at your child’s schoolwork, letting your child do the translations
- Talk to your child about their reading and learning
- Continue to read and write in your home language
- Provide opportunities for your child to use their French
- Recognize your child’s accomplishments
Students will be comfortable speaking with and understanding French-speaking people, not only in Canada, but also around the globe. They will be “functionally fluent” in French by the end of grade 12.Ěý
The BEST thing that I have ever done! I can’t believe how much French I know in just one month! I couldn’t ask for a better way to learn a new language. –David S.
I wanted to try a new thing and decided it would be cool to learn French. –Tommy
The hardest part was leaving my friends, but everyone is in the same boat and you make friends quickly. –Gabby
I think it is an INCREDIBLE opportunity and I am learning so many things. I think it is great if you want a challenge. –Claire
In the long run, it will be handy for communicating. A new language will open up doors. I also wanted a challenge in learning and I thought a new language was perfect. –Amanda
It is definitely something really big to take on, but in the end it turns out to be very fun. – Caia
In grade eight, LFI students continue the program through to grade 12 with their Early French Immersion peers. 50% of the courses in grade eight will be in French. The number of courses in French gradually decreases through to Grade 12. Graduates will receive a Bilingual Dogwood Certificate, enabling them to pursue a post-secondary education in French, should they so desire. The French Immersion program is presently housed at McRoberts and McMath Secondary schools.
- A student who
- is curious and willing to learn in another language
- is willing to persevere through the initial stages of language learning
- is eager to have new experiences and meet new friends
- enjoys language activities and is willing to spend lots of time chatting to friends in class en français!
- LFI is suitable for all students, regardless of level of English or home language(s) spoken
Learning another language helps students make connections and deepen their understanding of all the languages they speak. The LFI program provides a safe learning environment which helps develop students’ confidence as communicators and learners. When learning French students not only learn the language, but also about French culture. Language skills are useful when travelling, meeting people and for future employment.