Welcome - Bienvenue

Dear and Guardians,

I want to welcome you and your child/children to Core French with Mlle. Prior. I am very excited to be teaching your child/children this year and the addition of Primary Core French at our school! This gives me the opportunity to teach all students from Grade 1 - Grade 8.

Goals/ Purpose of the Core French Program:

 The Elementary core French program is a basic second language program intended to enable students to communicate purposefully in French and develop an openness to cultural diversity. My goal is to increase engagement and  enjoyment of Core French by providing the students with lessons which will appeal to all types of learners. Lessons will often be hands-on, integrate technology, include music and movement, and sometimes be student-led.

Following the Ontario Curriculum from 4-8 and our board Primary Core French Curriculum from 1-3 students will be encouraged to increase their comprehension of spoken French and to increase their own confidence when speaking in French. Students will be taught high frequency words as well as common questions and phrases.

Students will also focus on written expression in French, according to the Ontario Curriculum. Written work will extend from oral language knowledge.

Reading in French will also be a priority. Students will use the literacy skills they use in English to understand what they read in French.

I would also like to mention that I strive to speak only in French during French class. I will always introduce new words/concepts with actions, pictures, etc... Sometimes I will even "sandwich" the English word with the new French word.

Responsibility:

As outlined in the Curriculum document, teachers, parents and students need to work as a team to ensure student success. Students who are willing to make the effort required and whoa re able to apply themselves will soon learn that there is a direct relationship between achievement and hard work, and will be motivated to work as a result. Learning to take responsibility for one's progress and learning is an important part of education for all students. Students are encouraged to pursue opportunities outside the classroom to extend and enrich their skills in French. The ability to communicate in French should be viewed as a valuable skill that enhances and reinforces overall communicative abilities.

Why learn French?

The following is a few reasons why learning French is beneficial to students.

- To connect with the world:
Other than English, French is the only language widely spoken on all 5 continents and spoken in over 43 countries in the world. French is a principal language of world diplomacy. It's also an official language of the United Nations, the European Community and the International Olympic Movement. Knowing French will connect students to this world. They can have unique opportunities and adventures, meet new friends and appreciate other cultures. They can also explore books, music and films provided in this major world language.


- To connect with the rest of Canada:
Canada is a bilingual country. French is Canada's second language and more than 8 million Canadians speak French. Learning this language would enable students to become familiar with French Canadian culture, history and lifestyle and be able to communicate with French Canadians.

- To enhance English skills:
Since French and English are both derived from Latin, learning French can increase one's English skills, vocabulary, and make one more aware of the nuances of language. Over 20,000 English words are almost identical to the French equivalent.

- To participate in many government-sponsored programs:
Students learning French are eligible for many existing exchange programs and work experience opportunities in French speaking provinces.

- To improve employment options:
In Canada, all federal government jobs require bilingualism. French is a major language of high teach and business in the world. French is also a strong asset in the teaching profession and media-related careers.

Throughout the year I hope to stimulate the students' desire to enhance their ability to use French in a positive atmosphere.

Second language learning in general is valuable for a number of reasons. Research confirms that knowledge of a second language strengthens first language skills, and that the ability to speak two or more languages generally enhances problem-solving and reasoning skills, the capacity for creative thinking, and the ability to respect and understand other cultures. Second language learning strengthens students' ability to communicate and participate effectively in the workplace and the global community. It also increases their ability to understand themselves and other people, and helps them to appreciate the power of words and the many different uses of language.

How can I help my child/children at home?

Show an interest, be positive and give encouragement about your child's French program
- Have in your home a French/English dictionary, and a verb book for junior/intermediate students
- Listen to French music on the radio (CKTF 104.1, Radio Canada 90.7, CIMF 94.9)
- Watch French television (Radio-Canada, TFO, Vrak TV, Canal Famille)
- Go to restaurants or shop in Quebec (Hull, Gatineau, Montreal, Quebec City)
- Create labels for objects around the house (la table, la chaise, le mur)
- Visit the French section at Chapters
- Use a word each day in French (école, maison, regarder)
- Visit local museums and participate in the French program or tour
Some parents may be worried because they can only speak limited French, so please remember that your child/children is/are the learner(s) and enjoy their progress as you expand your understanding.

"Learning to learn is a very important skill to acquire."

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