Instructional Programs and Materials AP 212: Programs in Languages other than English

Background

The Division supports courses and programs in languages other than English.

Definitions

Bilingual Programs are partial immersion programs in which the target language, other than French, is the language of instruction for up to fifty percent (50%) of the day. Subjects such as fine arts, health, social studies, physical education, mathematics and science may be taught in the target language.

French as a Second Language Courses are offered, beginning in grade 4 or grade 10, and continue to grade 12. French is taught as a subject to develop communication skills and an understanding and appreciation of Francophone culture.

French Immersion Programming is programming where French is the language of instruction for a significant part of the school day; that is, several or all subjects, except English Language Arts, are taught in French. This program is designed for students whose first language is not French. The objective is proficiency of the English language, functional fluency in French, and an understanding and appreciation of Francophone culture.

Additional Language Programs offer students the opportunity to learn another language and to be able to communicate in this language at a level of fluency and proficiency consistent with Alberta Education student learning outcomes.

Procedures

1. Instruction in a language other than English may be provided to students in grades 4 to 12.
   1. The choice of language(s) offered at any one (1) school is dependent on community interest and the proficiency of staff and availability of resources.
2. Transportation to immersion and bilingual programs is provided according to Board Policy 17, Student Transportation Services.
3. French Immersion Programming
   1. The decision to open or close a bilingual or immersion program is made by the Superintendent of the school(s) involved.
   2. Schools offering French Immersion shall provide Alberta Education’s recommended instructional time allocations in French.
   3. English Language Arts shall be provided to all students, consistent with the Guide to Education: ECS to Grade 12.
   4. A French speaking administrator shall be appointed in each French Immersion school.
   5. The Head of the Education Department shall ensure ongoing support for the program.
   6. In order to facilitate and enhance the French Immersion program direction, a Division French Immersion Advisory Committee shall be established.
      1. The Committee will be comprised of one (1) representative from each school offering a French Immersion program, the Second Language consultant, and a Division Office Representative.
   7. The Division French Immersion Certificate requirements shall require a minimum of thirty (30) credits in French Immersion in Senior High including:
      1. French Language Arts 10/20/30.
      2. A minimum of one other 30 level course in French.
      3. Three (3) types of certificates shall be made available:
         1. French Immersion Certificate (successful completion of above requirements);
         2. French Immersion Certificate of Merit (as above with a seventy percent (70%) average);
         3. French Immersion Certificate of Excellence (as above with an eighty percent (80%) average).
4. Bilingual Program
   1. In schools where languages other than English are offered, students will have access to these courses in accordance with Alberta Education’s recommended instructional time allocations.
5. Language Courses
   1. Language course programming shall be offered according to the Alberta Education Program of Studies and Guide to Education: ECS to Grade 12.