French as a Second Language
The ALCDSB offers a range of French as a Second Language (FSL) programs, including French Immersion, Core French and Extended French.
Core French
Core French is offered at all ALCDSB schools from Grades 1-12.
Elementary French Immersion
French Immersion is offered to students in Grades K-8 at the following schools:
- École catholique Cathédrale
- Nicholson Catholic College (7-8)
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School
- St. Geneviève Catholic School
- St. Mary Catholic School (K-6)
- St. Michael Catholic School (K-6)
- St. Paul Catholic Secondary School (7-8)
Secondary French Immersion/Extended
Offered to students in Grades 9-12 at the following secondary schools:
Secondary Extended Sites
- St. Paul Catholic Secondary School
- Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School
Secondary Immersion/Extended Sites
- Nicholson Catholic College
- Regiopolis-Notre Dame Catholic High School
French programs focus on the development of communication skills taught in authentic, meaningful contexts. Students in French language classes are assessed in 4 strands:
- Listening
- Speaking
- Reading
- Writing
Listening and speaking are at the forefront of all instruction and assessment. Teaching and assessing through an action-oriented approach focuses heavily on oral interactions.
International Baccalaureate
Nicholson Catholic College (Belleville) and Regiopolis-Notre Dame Catholic High School (Kingston) offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Students in French Immersion may choose to complete the Higher Level Language B component of their IB Diploma. Extended or Core French students may complete the Standard Level. Language B of their IB Diploma.
At the ALCDSB, students who have pursued French up until Grade 12 through either Core, Immersion, or Extended studies have the opportunity to pursue the internationally recognized Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF) certificate.
What is DELF?
The Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF) is an internationally recognized test of French proficiency.
Upon completion, successful students receive a diploma awarded by France's Ministry of National Education. This diploma is valid for life and recognized in 160 countries, as well as universities, employers and the Canadian Federal Government.