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Frequently Asked Questions

about learning French

Anchor-FAQ

What if I do not speak French?

In what language does the school communicate information about a child’s progress?

It is not necessary for you to speak French for your child to be successful. Our program is designed for children of non-French speaking parents. Your children will come home and share their learnings and you can learn alongside them!

How can I prepare my child for learning French as a second language?

Children are not expected to know any French prior to beginning at Enscolaire. Even if parents do not know French themselves, they can encourage their children to take an interest in French in various ways. Children might enjoy noticing and examining how French is used in their environment; for example, on street signs or on food and household item packages. Some children might enjoy listening to French music, singing songs, watching French children’s programming or looking at pictures of Francophone communities.

The best way to prepare your child for learning French is to maintain a positive outlook on language learning and commit to supporting your child’s education.

All communication to parents/guardians is in English.

What are some advantages of learning a second language?

People who speak a second language tend to be culturally sensitive and capable of resisting stereotyping. They enjoy broader access to literature, drama, films and music. Communication skills in the first language can be improved by the study of a second language. Learning a second language positively impacts all learning. In the 21st century of a knowledge-based society, a bilingual person has "an invaluable added strength in life".

 

- Saul, John Ralston, Canadian Parents for French National News, Winter 2000

How will my child learn?

Learning French will be natural and spontaneous, much like learning a first language.  In the classroom, teachers will speak French all the time using gestures, mimes, visual, auditory and concrete materials.  The teacher will only speak English if the child’s health or safety is at risk or if a child has a problem and is emotionally distraught.  As in learning a first language, understanding French will come much earlier than being able to speak it. Very quickly, your child will understand words and phrases and will respond appropriately.

Will my child be able to speak French as well as read, write, and understand it?

All students learning French as a Second Language can expect to develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.  There are many factors that influence the level of proficiency attained, but students normally progress from being able to use very simple language about themselves and familiar situations to being able to communicate about a broader range of topics, using and understanding increasingly complex language structures. Since Enscolaire students are spending half their day in French, students will develop these skills quickly.

How can I support my child?

What resources are available to me and my child?

There are many ways you can support your child’s success. 

  • Showing an interest in your child’s progress.

  • Encouraging and supporting your child’s efforts.

  • Reading to their child regularly and listening to him/her read aloud.

  • Finding ways to expose your child to French outside of school time.

  • Listening to children’s music by French artists.

  • Visiting French communities in Ontario and Quebec, France etc.

  • Communicating your questions, suggestions, and concerns with teachers who support your child as a learner

  •  Enjoy French films, plays and TV together

  •  Visit some French language websites with your child (i.e. Duolingo Kids)

  •  Celebrate your child's effort, progress and achievements

  •  Praise effort and perseverance in homework and projects

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