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.

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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.

Students who remain in English program classes in grade one will begin Core French Instruction in grade four.� Families do not need to register for the Core French program as all students in English program classes will be automatically registered at the beginning of grade four.

Click here to find more information on the Core French webpage.

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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.

French Immersion requires that French must be the language of instruction for a minimum of 50 per cent of the total instructional time and provide a minimum of 3,800 hours of French instruction by the end of grade 8. At HWDSB, we strive to offer more than the minimum requirement each year from grades 1 to 6. In grades 7 and 8, 50 to 60 per cent of the program is taught in French.

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.

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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.

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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.

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Additional Resources