Dear Parents and Care Givers,

   Bonjour!  The French as a second language program has begun for another year!

   What does this program contribute to your child's education?  I am fond of saying that we don't just learn French in French class!  Not only do lessons teach communication in another language, but our lessons enhance understanding of English grammar (as we study nouns, verbs and adjectives), our lessons foster appreciation of other cultures (ie. French-Canadian), and our lessons allow artistic expression (as we sing, dance, act, create objects).

   Two approaches are being used to help each child learn to understand, speak, read and write in French.

   Firstly, the Gestures method is a way to visually and kinesthetically teach high frequency vocabulary.  Each new word is accompanied by a physical gesture.  This method is valued for increasing understanding, enhancing fluency, and building self-confidence.  Wendy Maxwell's Fun French Plays will be used.  Shortened versions of plays will be taught to Grades 1 and 2.  "Petite Poule Rouge" and "les Trois Petits Cochons" will be used in Grades 3 and 4.  "Bonjour Monsieur" and "Qui est le plus fort?" will be acted out in Grades 5 and 6.  In Grades 7 and 8, Rumplestiltskin and "La fille laide et le chef invisible" will be presented.

   Secondly, the thematic approach is valued for improving motivation. Topics that are relevant to the child serve to teach linguistic content in an interesting manner.  In grades 1 and 2, examples of themes are the seasons, food, friendship, clothing, and the family.  In Grades 3 and 4, the forest, pizza, and t-shirts are themes to be studied.  In Grades 5 and 6, students will write poems about weather, and talk about a student exchange to Quebec, and a pig that got stolen from the fair.  The Grade 7 and 8 themes include food, fascinating animals, and careers.

   What can you do to help your child?  Each week in Grades 3-8, a short list of words and a dictation sentence will be sent home on Tuesdays.  All grades will receive a short test on Fridays except for Grade 6 (test Thursday).  You could assist your child by asking them the meanings of words on their lists.

   If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.  I am looking forward to working with your child.  It is my hope that your child will learn with and enjoy the French program.  Your support is appreciated.

                                                       Sincerely, Mme Mary Brown