The Late French Immersion Program Leslie Thomas Junior High Parent Meeting February 12, 2018

What is Late French Immersion? Late French Immersion is a program designed for students entering into grade 7, whose experience with the French language has been limited to elementary Core French.

Why Learn French? Canada’s official languages are French and English Strengthens problem-solving, reasoning and creative thinking skills Helps develop understanding and appreciation of other cultures Being bilingual is a huge advantage when looking for a job

Curriculum Outcomes The Late French Immersion Program follows the same learning outcomes as defined by the Nova Scotia English Provincial Guides. Grade 7 LFI students will take 60-75% of their courses in French.

Is Late French Immersion the Right Choice For Your Child? Does your child enjoy French? Is she/he interested in being immersed in the language? Is your child ready for a challenge?

What to Expect Entering French Immersion Teachers will give students the tools to help them communicate in French Students quickly start to acquire the language It is natural for the student to sometimes feel overwhelmed Students will develop a sense of pride and accomplishment with their new language

Language Acquisition Students acquire French language skills in an environment modeled by the teacher’s oral proficiency, literacy awareness and pedagogical knowledge of second language acquisition strategies.

The role of the FSL parent As parents you need to be patient as well! Language learning takes place over a period of time. Students will learn at different rates depending on their aptitude, work habits, motivation and organization.

Ideas For Parents to Help Students French section of community libraries. HRSB website, French links, LFI Teacher websites French language television Extracurricular and community activities which promote French language and culture.

At High School Completion… Students receive a French Immersion Certificate at the end of grade 12 upon completion of course requirements (9 FI courses) Upon completion, students should be able to: - function in a French-speaking community - accept a job where French is the working language - pursue university or college education in French

Helpful Links Canadian Parents for French www.cpf.ca FSL Homework Toolbox http://www.fslhomeworktoolbox.ca/index.php French Homework Tips for Parents http://education.alberta.ca/parents/resources/youcanhelp.aspx BonPatron (created in Canada) www.bonpatron.com