What is French Immersion?
Immersion students learn the same curriculum as their English peers; however some subjects are taught in French. It is based on the idea that students learn more French when they are required to use it to complete real tasks (i.e. Science). Over 30 years of research has produced overwhelming evidence that the Canadian model of French immersion works.What does LFI look like?
Students begin Grade 7 with approximately 75 percent of subject instruction in French. This percentage decreases in each grade, as more English is introduced. In general, the following table illustrates instruction in French.| 7-8 French Language Arts
Math |
9 French Language Arts
Science |
10-12 French Language Arts Various Social Studies Options |
How is LFI different from other French programs?
- Early French Immersion (EFI)
Students begin Kindergarten with approximately 100 percent of subject instruction in French. The percentage of French instruction decreases after the Grade 2 level as English Language Arts is introduced in Grade 3. By Grade 9, EFI and LFI students study approximately the same percentage of French. - Core French (CF)
Students spend approximately 10 percent of the day studying French as a subject within the curriculum from Grades 4 to 9. - Intensive Core French (ICF)
ICF is a method of organizing the Grade 6 curriculum so that students receive an increased amount of instruction in French for half of the school year.
Why choose French Immersion?
Learning a second language:- creates opportunities for higher education, jobs and travel
- develops an awareness and appreciation of other cultures
- improves understanding of the first language
- makes it easier to learn additional languages
- improves listening, concentration, problem-solving and communication skills (since students learn to process two languages instead of one)
- enhances organization and study skills
- enhances teamwork skills
- demonstrate equal or better learning in other subjects
- have high self-esteem
- be independent and self-disciplined learners
What if I don’t speak French?
LFI was created for children of English families; therefore, it is common for parents to have little or no knowledge of French. Here are some things you can do:- Show interest and encouragement. Your attitude will influence how your child sees him/herself as a learner and, in turn, will influence success.
- Help your child to be organized. The transition to Intermediate is a significant challenge. Take time to ask about school and assignments.
- Initiate an open line of communication with your child’s teacher and contact him or her when you are uncertain about something.
- Establish a quiet time and place for homework where you can monitor progress.
- Provide a good French-English dictionary for home use.
- Encourage your child to review homework with you. Students can summarize the concepts presented in class.
- Encourage your child to read French books, watch French television, listen to French radio and become involved in French cultural events.
- Encourage your child to contact a classmate in case of difficulty. It is beneficial to share concerns, ideas, talents, as well as frustrations. These are the first steps to becoming independent learners.
- Communicate with other parents of LFI students. It can be a source of comfort and support, especially if another parent has an older child in the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child fall behind in his/her English skills?English language skills of LFI students are already well established by Grade 7. Generally, English skills are enriched and LFI students often surpass their English counterparts.
Is course content similar to English?
The outcomes and basic content are the same as the English program as outlined by the Department of Education.
Will my child’s grades drop?
While some students experience little or no drop in grades, students may expect to see lower marks on the first report card. It is normal for students to need time to adjust to both the language and intermediate routines. Meanwhile, teachers take various measures to help ease the frustration of the first few months (i.e. repetition, visual aids, gestures, study guides, hands-on activities, and help with organization).
What if my child did not participate in Grade 6 Intensive Core French (ICF)?
Participation in ICF may help ease frustration during the first few weeks of LFI; however, LFI was created for students who have completed the Core French Program.
