French Immersion

Recent studies show that learning another language not only has a positive impact on your child’s first language; it actually enhances learning in all areas.  The French Immersion experience can lead your child to the richness of bilingual and bicultural thinking.

There are two French Immersion Programs offered in Delta:  the EARLY French Immersion Program (Kindergarten to Grade 12), and the LATE French Immersion Program (Grades 6 to Grade 12).  Upon completion of the French Immersion Program, students who fulfil the BC Ministry of Education’s other graduation requirements, will receive a DOUBLE DOGWOOD, which means that they will graduate with two diplomas.

Richardson offers the Early French Immersion Program in Kindergarten through Grade 7.  When students finish Grade 7, they continue their French studies at Burnsview Secondary School.

The Early Immersion program provides students with an education equivalent to that which is available in the English language program, while providing students with the opportunity to acquire a high level of proficiency in French.  Normally, students enter Early Immersion in Kindergarten (and occasionally in Grade 1).  When they graduate from the program in Grade 12, they should be able to participate easily in conversations in French, take post-secondary courses with French as the language of instruction, and accept employment with French as the language of the work place.

The French immersion approach is based on the premise that young children learn a second language best when a “gentle approach” is used.  They learn French in somewhat the same way they acquired their first language at home.  During the primary years from Kindergarten to Grade 2, the language of instruction is 100% in French.  English Language Arts is gradually introduced into the classroom in Grade 3, and by Grade 7 students receive 20% of their instruction in English.

Parental involvement and encouragement are tremendously important to the academic success of all children.  French Immersion students are no exception.  A child’s first language provides a sound base for the acquisition of a second language.  Talk with your child about school.  Show an interest in your child’s daily activities.  Read together daily.  Be positive about the program and the teacher.