EARLY FRENCH IMMERSION INFORMATIONSESSION FEBRUARY 2005 BONJOUR.
WELCOME TO MIDDLE FRENCH IMMERSION
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Transcript of WELCOME TO MIDDLE FRENCH IMMERSION
WELCOME TO MIDDLE FRENCH IMMERSION
Why does immersion work?
Imitates the way children learn their first language
The language is learned by using it for meaningful communication
The “kick start” ensures students understand French well enough to learn subjects via the French language
There is sufficient exposure and practice time to achieve a high level of proficiency in French
Why does immersion work?
• Students take a long “swim” in French , about 5 hours a day, about 190 days per year…
• …but they continue to be “submerged” in English at home and in the community.
The process of learning French also:
Develops listening and learning skills
Increases cognitive abilities, creating a more flexible thinker
Improves communication skills
Strengthens English language skills
Programs offered with the Fort McMurray Catholic School District
• At Ecole St. Paul School students can enroll in French Immersion through Premiers Pas, Kindergarten or even Grade 1.
• Next year, they can enter the French Immersion program via the Middle Immersion program
• Entry is now available in grade 4• Middle French Immersion for grades 4,5,6• Bussing is available from all areas in Fort McMurray
• Continue their studies in French Immersion at Holy Trinity for grades 7 to 12 and graduate with a bilingual diploma
Why grade 4?Students have mastered
their first languageStudents are willing to take
risksStudents are still willing to
mimic and learn through song and drama
Students are eager to learnThe teacher is still a strong
and positive role model
Characteristics of the ideal candidate
The student should have strong skills in English The student should have strong work and study
habits The student should have a positive attitude towards
learning a new language The student should not be afraid to make mistakes
and take risks The student might need a challenge
Overview of the Middle French Immersion Program
• Exciting, fast paced and very rewarding• Structured program• Increased workload• Cross-curricular activities• Very energetic and supportive teacher• Strong parental involvement• Main focus of term one is acquiring French
language skills
The parent’s roleo Teachers are aware that the
parents don’t speak French. Maintain good communication with the teacher and the school
o Parents help by focusing on the concepts being taught and the underlying skills
o Read often with your child and make reading and writing an important part of your family life
o Be a coach: facilitate, encourage, supervise