French Language Programs
Alberta Education encourages opportunities for all Alberta students to learn French. It has developed a number of French language programs to accommodate students at all levels. French as a second language, French immersion and Francophone programs offer students many opportunities to explore the French language and culture.
Maintaining the diverse linguistic and multicultural fabric of our communities is very important. Alberta Education, through its International Languages Programs, supports the learning of a number of other languages in addition to French such as German, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Spanish and Ukrainian.
French as a second language
French as a second language courses are intended for students whose first language is not French. Students will develop a good foundation in French and an appreciation of the French language and culture.
Students are usually introduced to French as a second language in Grade 4 or Grade 7. In this program, French is taught as a subject, usually from 30 to 40 minutes a day. The great majority of school jurisdictions in Alberta offer these courses.
French immersion
French immersion programs are intended for students whose first language is not French. Students will be functionally fluent in French as well as in English and develop an appreciation of the French language and culture. This program prepares students to pursue postsecondary education in French.
Students are usually introduced to early immersion in Kindergarten or Grade 1. Late immersion is typically introduced at the Grade 7 level. French is used as the language of instruction in many subject areas for a significant part of each school day.
Readers are encouraged to visit the Canadian Parents for French (Alberta Branch) website for further information on French as a second language and French immersion programs.
Francophone education
Francophone education is intended for children of parents who meet the criteria of Section 23 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. These parents have the right to have their children receive primary and secondary school instruction in French.
Alberta Education develops the Program of Studies in French for Kindergarten to Grade 12 students in Francophone programs. All courses, except for English language arts, are offered entirely in French.
This program has been designed to help students identify with and be part of the Francophone culture and community. It is offered in 33 schools across the province by five francophone regional authorities.
Readers are encouraged to visit the Fédération des parents francophones de l’Alberta website for futher information.
