French as a Second Language (FSL) promotes the use of language learning strategies, goal setting/reflection and an appreciation of French culture in Canada and in other regions of the world. HWDSB’s FSL programming is guided by the three core priorities set out in A Framework for French as a Second Language in Ontario Schools, Kindergarten to Grade 1-12:
- Increase student confidence, proficiency and achievement in FSL
- Increase the percentage of students studying FSL until graduation
- Increase student, educator, parent, and community engagement in FSL
These core priorities are at the forefront of HWDSB�s commitment to FSL that envisions all students communicating and interacting with growing confidence in French.
HWDSB offers two FSL programs � Core French and French Immersion. The programs differ in intensity, but share a common purpose to develop communication skills in the French language. Both programs teach students to listen, speak, read, and write in French through real-world language opportunities.
Core French�
At the elementary level, Core French is mandatory for all students in English-language elementary schools.� Students receive up to 200 minutes of French instruction per week and must have accumulated a minimum of 600 hours of French instruction by the end of Grade 8.�Often the French as a Second Language teacher is a specialist who teaches multiple grades.
The goal of this program is to develop basic communication skills in French. Therefore, opportunities for oral interaction and spontaneous discussion are offered. The program also develops students� appreciation of French culture in Canada and in other parts of the world.
Click here to find more information on the Core French webpage.
French Immersion
French Immersion is a proven way of acquiring excellent language skills in French. The French Immersion program at HWDSB is specifically designed for parents who do not speak French, but want their children to speak both official languages. The program is open to HWDSB students starting in Grade 1.
Applications for Grade 1 entry into French Immersion are only accepted through the online application form. This application is only available to current Senior Kindergarten students. The purpose of a system application process is to ensure that all students who wish to take French Immersion programming are able to do so. The process is designed to accommodate all students who apply.
Click here to find more information on the French Immersion webpage.
DELF Diploma
The Diplome d�Etude de Langue Francaise (DELF) is a diploma issued by the French Ministry of National Education in recognition of French-language studies. These diplomas show a student�s proficiency in French and are recognized around the world. Click here to learn more on the DELF website.
In the spring of each year, HWDSB offers all Grade 12 Core French and French Immersion students the opportunity to take the DELF exam to demonstrate their French-language skills at three levels: A2, B1, B2. At each level, a series of examinations evaluate the four communication skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.�Students can reach out to their French teacher for more information.
French as a Second Language Advisory Committee
The French as a Second Language Advisory Committee helps shape French programming in HWDSB elementary and secondary schools, as well as Ministry and community supports that enhance the learning experience for students.
Applications for the FASL Advisory Committee are now closed for the 2024-25 school year.
HWDSB welcomes submissions from parents, guardians and caregivers with students in Core French or French Immersion. Space on the FASL Advisory Committee is limited. Committee members asked to commit to three meetings over the course of the school year, with the meeting schedule being determined at the first meeting.
The first FASL Advisory Committee meeting for 2024-25 takes place virtually via Microsoft Teams. Email invitations have been sent to committee members.
Additional Resources
Click here to explore at-home tools for French learning!
Resource | Description |
BrainPOP | Online site to explore all subjects. Suitable for French Immersion, k-12 |
Radio Canada Jeunesse | Radio clips and podcasts that are relevant and of high interest. It includes quizzes and games related to each audio clip |
Chez mimi | Short you tube series on everyday subjects. Suitable for Primary immersion and Core French. |
Boukili | An immersive, interactive and educational reading experience for children aged 4 and over. Boukili encourages children to read and supports them by offering a collection of over 120 illustrated books grouped by reading level, theme and skill. |
Duolingo for Schools | Online site and downloadable app (free) Grades 1 to 12 |
Word Reference | Similar to Google Translate, this tool allows simple translations, lists of translations by topic, and text-to-speech features. |
National Film Board of Canada | Use this resource to access the National Film Board�s collection of films. These films include content that is important to Canada and Canadians. |
Dessiner Avec Moi/Draw-Along | Students can access a special series of animated videos and activity sheets that Mike Cope has created for young children (students in JK to Grade 3).
Students can also draw with Mike by exploring his YouTube channels (in French or in English). |
Sound Bites for FSL
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The enclosed activities are designed for educators to use with individuals, small groups, or large groups of students to address various components of phonological awareness. |