French Programs
Welcome to FSL at CDSBEO
Welcome to French as a Second Language (FSL) at the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO). Aligned with our board’s commitment to Believing, Achieving, and Belonging, we provide a well-rounded, inclusive, and faith-filled education. We prepare our students to thrive as bilingual citizens who are ready to contribute to a global society with confidence and compassion.
Our Mission & Vision: Believing in Every Learner
At CDSBEO, we envision a learning journey where every student is empowered to interact with growing confidence in French. We believe learning a second language is a lifelong investment that enriches a child’s cognitive, cultural, and professional future.
Our mission is to foster a holistic learning environment where every student feels they truly belong and is encouraged to reach their full God-given potential. We strive to:
- Achieve Excellence: Develop spontaneous and fluent communication skills through research-informed practices.
- Foster Belonging: Nurture an appreciation for diversity and the global Francophonie.
- Ensure Equity: Provide equitable access to high-quality language programs for all learners, regardless of their starting point.
Programming Options at CDSBEO
We offer three distinct pathways designed to support student achievement and professional readiness.
| Program | Starting Grade | Description |
| French Immersion | Kindergarten/Grade 1 | 50% of the day in French. Students study subjects like Social Studies, Science, and the Arts in French. |
| Core French | Kindergarten/Grade 4 | Foundational skills. Focuses on daily communication and real-life applications like travel or dining. |
| Extended French | Grade 9 | Functional Fluency and Extension. Offered at select secondary schools for students to continue developing French proficiency skills with select core subjects. |
Note on Entry Years: While the core curriculum typically mandates Core French from Grade 4, CDSBEO implements early exposure to support our commitment to oral proficiency.
Our Methodology: Achieving Through Innovation
We use evidence-based, “brain-friendly” strategies to ensure your child moves beyond memorization to authentic communication.
1. The Neurolinguistic Approach (NLA)
The NLA prioritizes oral communication to mirror natural language acquisition.
- Internal Grammar: Students build a “feel” for the language through repeated, authentic conversations before focusing on formal rules.
- Project-Based Learning: Language is learned through meaningful tasks and social interaction rather than isolated exercises.
2. The CEFR Framework
We align instruction with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
- Standardized Growth: We track progress across recognized levels (A1 to B2).
- Can-Do Statements: We focus on what students can do with the language in real-world contexts.
3. Equity & Triangulation: A Culture of Belonging
To ensure fair and equitable assessment, we look at more than just test scores. We use Triangulation to build a complete picture of your child’s growth:
- Observations: Noting how students interact in French during class.
- Conversations: Speaking with students to understand their thinking.
- Products: Reviewing written work, creative projects, and presentations.
Parent Resources
FSL Homework Help website: www.fslhomeworktoolbox.ca
This site supports parents with children enrolled in a French Immersion (FI) program by providing supports to assist with homework in French. It is also a resource for FI students who require an accessible user friendly reference tool to help with homework.
Bon Patron: www.bonpatron.com This website provides supports for French grammar and spelling.
French Street: www.frenchstreet.ca
This website offers a unique collection of French resources designed to support teachers, students and parents.
Canadian Parents for French (Ontario): cpf.ca
This website provides parental support and information on all French Second Language (FSL) education (Core French, Extended French and French Immersion as well as French full-day Kindergarten and French preschool programs) in the Public and Catholic school boards in Ontario and private schools.
Including Students with Special Education Needs in French as a Second Language: www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/amenagement/includingfls2015.pdf
A Framework for French as a Second Language in Ontario Schools: www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/amenagement/frameworkfls.pdf
Supporting Your Child’s Success in French Immersion and Extended French – Elementary Schools, A Parent Guide: www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/literacynumeracy/parentguidefrench.pdf
Welcoming English Language Learners into French as a Second Language Programs: www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/amenagement/welcoming.pdf
Elementary FSL Curriculum in Ontario: www.edu.gov.on.ca/elementary/
Secondary FSL Curriculum in Ontario: www.edu.gov.on.ca/secondary/
Framework for FSL in Ontario: www.edu.gov.on.ca/framework/
Other Resources
Are you considering French Immersion for your child?
Check out this great testimonial from Alexis, a student at St. Mary Catholic High School, about why FSL is such a great program pathway!
French language learning can open doors for many opportunities, during your child’s educational years, and beyond!
Contact
FSL Programs
Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario
2755 Highway 43, Kemptville ON K0G 1J0
telephone: 613-258-7757 or 1-800-443-4562
fax: 613-258-7134
email: programs@cdsbeo.on.ca