Early French Immersion (K-7)
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
French Immersion is a research-based program that provides students with the opportunity to learn French from an early age. Starting in Kindergarten, or Grade 1 if space is available, Early French Immersion provides instruction entirely in French until Grade 3, after which 20% of instruction is in English and 80% in French up to Grade 7. This program aims to develop strong communication skills in both languages, as well as an understanding of language structure that may help students learn other languages more easily.
French is one of Canada's two official languages, and its worldwide distribution makes it a valuable language to learn in today's global society. With more than 45 countries sharing the language, French is considered a "world" language. The acquisition of French can prove to be a valuable asset in the future, as it can lead to increased opportunities in both personal and professional settings.
Overall, French Immersion offers students an opportunity to learn valuable language while also developing strong communication skills and an understanding of language structure. As a result, it can be a great choice for students who wish to broaden their horizons and enhance their future prospects.
Early French Immersion Locations:
| City Centre | Cloverdale/Clayton | South Surrey/White Rock |
|---|---|---|
| Riverdale Elementary 14835 – 108A Avenue Phone: 604-588-5978 Email: riverdale@surreyschools.ca Simon Cunningham Elementary 9380 – 140 Street Phone: 604-588-4435 Email: simoncunningham@surreyschools.ca | Martha Currie Elementary 5811 – 184 Street Phone: 604-576-855 Email: marthacurrie@surreyschools.ca | Laronde Elementary Pacific Heights Elementary Peace Arch Elementary Woodward Hill Elementary |
For more information on French Immersion programs, please contact the schools or Priority Practices (Languages Department) at:
Phone: 604-595-5325
E-mail: CI-office@surreyschools.ca
How to Register:
- Kindergarten Lottery: Families will have a three-week period to apply for up to three choice programs via an online application process. For details, please refer to the How to Apply Online page for application procedures.
- Grades 1-7: To register students in Grades 1-7, please reach out to the specific school you are interested in.
SUGGESTIONS FOR PARENTS
How can I help my child?
- Read aloud daily in the language of the home and talk about what is being learned at school. Children quickly transfer knowledge between languages.
- Encourage involvement in French and English activities outside of school: books, cultural events, music, educational television and summer camps.
Can I help out at school if I don't speak French?
- Talk with the teacher about helping in the classroom and in the school. Non-French speakers are welcome!
- Opportunities to participate include; field trips, cooking, reading, doing crafts with the children, helping in the library and being active in your school's Parent Advisory Committee.
Will Early French Immersion affect my child's achievement in mathematics and other subjects?
- French Immersion students perform as well as their English-educated counterparts in all subject areas. In fact, in Surrey, French Immersion students surpass the provincial average in writing and math in the Foundation Skills Assessment (a provincial test administered to all B.C. Grade 4 and Grade 7 students).
- Learning in an additional language contributes to the development of strong communication skills, flexible thinking and expands the cultural horizons of the students
