French Immersion

Frequently Asked Questions…

What is French Immersion?

• The French Immersion Program provides students with fluency in speaking, reading, writing, listening and communicating in French by the end of Grade 12.
• French is the language of instruction, beginning in Kindergarten continuing to Grade 3 when English is introduced.
• Check out Alberta Education’s What do I want my child to achieve in French ?

Why Should I Consider French Immersion for my Child?

Learning French offers students significant linguistic, academic and cognitive benefits:

• strengthens English literacy skills and listening skills;
• enhances problem-solving abilities;
• strengthens concentration, math, and the ability to filter out non-important information;
• provides students with more flexible, divergent, and creative thinking skills;
• delays dementia and Alzheimer’s disease later on in life;
• provides graduates with more choices for advanced education and career options;
• gives graduates a competitive edge in the job market anywhere;
• broadens students' cultural life through access to literature, art, music and theatre;
• helps students to better understand the history, development and government of their country;
• builds cultural awareness and empathy;
• increases a student's feeling of self-esteem and pride; and
• makes learning additional languages easier.

But, We Don’t Speak French at Home! How does that work?

• You are not alone. Most parents of French Immersion students do not speak French! In fact, it was non-French speaking parents who established French Immersion in the first place! Your child will do just fine whether or not you speak French at home.
• Check out Yes, You Can Help!

I Need More Information

If you would like more information on what French Immersion looks like at Ardrossan Elementary, contact Mme Helene Hewitt or Mrs. Kyla Harding to set up a time to meet. We are happy to answer any questions you might have.

Resource Links

• Handbook for French Immersion Kindergarten
• Canadian Parents For French
• Bilingual People Are Like Brain Bodybuilders
• How a Second Language Trains Your Brain for Math
• Bilingualism Delays Age at Onset of Dementia, Independent of Education and Immigration Status
• Bilingual Benefits: How Learning Another Language Keeps Your Mind Sharp No Matter Your Age
• How the Brain Benefits from Being Bilingual