The French Immersion program is a choice program that has been offered by the Surrey School District since 1977. Both Early and Late French Immersion programs are offered in a number of locations around the District. The Immersion programs provide an opportunity for students to further their education in Canada's second official language, with a goal of bilingual proficiency and an enhanced cultural awareness. Bilingualism is defined as oral fluency and literacy in both English and French.
The French Immersion programs parallel the regular academic program as prescribed by the Ministry of Education, with the majority of the curriculum being offered in French. Immersion programs provide a unique opportunity for students to embark on a positive language learning experience with lifelong benefits.
Program
Curriculum and resources are provided by the Ministry of Education for both Early and Late French Immersion programs. The two programs are differentiated according to entry point as follows:
|
Program
|
Entry Point
|
Grades
|
|
Early French Immersion
|
Kindergarten
|
K - 12
|
|
Late French Immersion
|
Grade 6
|
6 - 12
|
School listing for Early and Late French Immersion programs.
From the Ministry of Education
The Ministry recognizes that French Immersion programming benefits the cognitive and social development of students, as well as their opportunities for career advancement. Research indicates that students who successfully complete French Immersion programs attain functional bilingualism while performing at a level equal or superior to their non French Immersion peers in content areas, including English Lanaguage Arts.
Conclusion
French is a world language, spoken on five continents and shared by 45 countries. French Immersion programs provide a wonderful opportunity for students to learn an additional language and experience new cultures. Learning additional languages provides unique career and educational opportunities.
Main French Immersion Page
Last Updated: August 31, 2011
| 
