LE français INTENSIF Exploring Intensive French as a means to enhance the learning profiles of our students.

Background of Intensive French 4 year research study To provide a higher level of language competency in French to all students To develop a positive attitude towards learning a second language First piloted in 2002 in Saskatoon Implemented across SK and Canada and replicated in other countries for other languages At 8 schools: St. Augustine, St. George, Mother Teresa, Father Robinson, St. Bernard, St. Dominic (S’toon) and St. Augustine and St. Dominic in Humboldt. (Approximately 268 students this year )

What does Intensive French look like? First five months: Intensive French (Sept. to end of January) Intense and uninterrupted periods of French 3 or 4 times the number of hours in FSL in a school year (ex.: from 90 to 300 hrs/year) A reorganized FSL curriculum based on a Language Arts/ Literacy approach Last five months: regular curriculum Grade 6 implementation

Sept.- January Feb.-June FFrench60%12% EMath14% EHealth education-4% EReligion10% EScience-8% ESocial studies-8% EMusic (Band)4% EPhys. Ed.8% EArts Ed.4% EEnglish language arts-28%

SCARED- especially at the beginning because it’s so new and you may not feel comfortable. FRUSTRATED- You want to talk but you aren’t quite sure of the words! DETERMINED- You want to express yourself and you take a chance to say something even if you aren’t sure! IGNITION- It clicks! This usually happens about week 6 or 7 of the 20 week program.

Brain and Language Research Hardwired at birth to speak every language Languages have much in common Considerable brain growth in adolescence Optimum time to expose students to a rich language experience. Why does it work?

Languages are best learned when there is … Less time on KNOWLEDGE – Teaching grammar (for oral communication) – Learning vocabulary lists More time on USE – Interacting in the 2 nd language – Modeling the language – Correcting the language used

Focus 1.Authentic communication 2.Developing literacy skills 3.Challenging projects 4.Interactive strategies 5.Building internal knowledge of French

Les passe- temps Les animaux Moi Examples of Themes Les voyages family food clothing school sports music

Results after the 5-month intensive period Oral Proficiency Interview Most students are able to sustain a conversation, using phrases and short sentences; emerging spontaneity; some ability to create with the language. Writing Assessment (composition) Saskatchewan students are able to write at approximately a grade 3 or 4 level in fluency and accuracy when compared with Quebec francophones.

Effects on Learning no negative effects improved abilities in English language and mathematics results superior scores to non-intensive classes in same schools improved abilities in English and self-esteem for some struggling students

Students showed : Increased responsibility and participation Increased self-esteem, confidence, initiative Increased autonomy and personal organizational skills Increased motivation to continue to study French

FOLLOW-UP: POST-INTENSIVE FRENCH for Grades 7-12  Enhancement of the Core French program  Same teaching strategies used in IF  Literacy & project-based  Units of study for grades 7-12  Same supports as IF from Ministry and Division

Grade 7 & 8 Post-Intensive French English24% French14% Math16% Religion10% Science8% Social studies8% Music (Band)4% Phys. Ed.8% Arts Ed.4% Health Education4% Grades 9-12 Post-IF semestered like other courses at St. Joseph, Bishop James Mahoney High School and Humboldt Collegiate.

Registration Process Each school has its own registration procedure for Intensive French Knowing early allows time to staff appropriately based on needs. Please know that the program provides an opportunity for students and that it is optional.