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French Immersion

WHY LEARN ANOTHER LANGUAGE?

Research shows that students who learn a second language:

  • Do better on intelligence tests
  • Have better results in school
  • Strengthen their communication skills in their first language
  • Build global citizenship skills
  • Improve their career prospects
  • Heighten their earning power
  • And they have twice as much fun!

WHY LEARN FRENCH?

  • Over 200 million people in 55 countries on five continents speak French regularly
  • French is the second most frequently taught additional language in the world
  • French is the first language of about a quarter of all Canadians
  • French is a global language of diplomacy; it is one of the official languages of the United Nations, the European Union, NATO, and many other international organizations
  • By accessing French culture in the original language, you can enrich your experience through literature, music, food, dance, and art

WHY CHOOSE FRENCH IMMERSION IN RETSD?

  • A K–12 language program with over 30 years of proven results
  • All students are welcome
  • Later immersion option available, starting in Grade 6
  • Designed for students whose first language is not French
  • Students with prior French language skills may also enter the program at other levels
  • A language program with a strong academic focus
  • Become proficient in French while mastering English
  • Acquire a facility for learning other languages
  • Opportunities for language proficiency certification through the internationally recognized DELF French assessment

HOW DOES FRENCH IMMERSION WORK?

  • French immersion is an official program of Manitoba Education—it follows a program of studies that is parallel to the English program and students are expected to meet the same outcomes
  • Teachers are bilingual and communicate in French to provide a French atmosphere for the students
  • Students spend most of each day immersed in French and over time they use it with increasing ease and precision
  • Communication between the home and school remains in English

Grades K–4

Students receive instruction in French for approximately 80 per cent of the school day (even more in kindergarten). Music, games, interactive reading, and technology all help to develop an ear for the language and build fluency.

Grades 5–8

Students receive instruction in French for most of the school day (60–75 per cent). They also have extracurricular events and cultural excursions to support their learning.

Grades 9–12

Students receive instruction in French for 50–75 per cent of the school day, depending on course availability and individual choices. French cultural and extracurricular activities are offered to support language skill development. At least 14–30 high school credits must be taken in French to obtain a French immersion diploma.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How can I help my child if I don't speak French?

Most parents of immersion students do not speak French and the students thrive in the program. Here are some ways you can help your child when you don't know the language:

  • Support and encourage your child's learning
  • Use your home language to develop your child's intellect through conversation about varied topics
  • Encourage reading in any language and read with your child in your home language
  • Communicate with the school about your child's progress
  • Show an interest in French and explore French events, films, and books

How will my child develop and maintain strong English skills in French immersion?

At least 25 per cent of the time (and more in later years) will be spend working on English skills. Moreover, studying in a second language will actually end up strengthening your child's English language skills, as well.

Isn't immersion just for gifted children? What if my child struggles?

Research and experience show that immersion students with a variety of challenges will do as well academically as they would in an English language program. Children learn at different rates and in different ways, regardless of their program.

OUR FRENCH IMMERSION SCHOOLS

Dual-Track (English program also taught at these schools)

French Milieu (French-only programming)

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Information about catchment areas, transportation, daycare, and after-school care can be found elsewhere on this website or by contacting the principal at one of our French immersion schools. As well, information can be found at:

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