Frequently Asked Questions

No, children in French Immersion do just as well in reading, writing, speaking and listening in English as those who only study in English. Sometimes primary students may find English a bit tricky at first only because all of their instruction is in French, but these differences usually disappear within one year of them getting English instruction.

No, French is not harder to learn than English. In fact, there are reasons to believe that English is harder to learn, especially when it comes to reading and writing because of irregularities in English spelling and grammar. Each language has their easy and hard parts but for speaking and listening children often find learning French is just as straightforward as learning English.

Yes, immersion is suitable for most struggling students. Research shows that children who might struggle in school for various reasons do just as well in French Immersion as they do in English-only programs.

Absolutely! Even if a child might have a tough time in school for different reasons, they can still become great at both languages in immersion programs.

No, it won't make things harder. Learning another language doesn't cause extra problems. In fact, immersion students with a bit of struggle in their first language have the same level of first language ability and achievement as if they were in a regular program.

There's no research saying they should avoid it. Learning to read in one language can actually help with reading in another language. So, having dyslexia doesn't mean a child can't learn to read and write in both languages.

Yes, they can! Studies show that children with developmental disabilities can learn two languages just as well as they would learn one. It's all about having the right support and lots of chances to use both languages.

Yes, all children, including those in French Immersion, can get the supports they need, the same way that the supports are available in the English program.

No. A child struggling in a subject in French is likely to struggle with that same subject in English. Switching to English is not likely to help because the child will have to learn new subject-specific vocabulary in English, which could set them even further behind. It's better to find ways to help them in their current program rather than switching languages.

Children in French Immersion score just as well as those in English-only programs, so there is no reason to believe that they need a 'boost' to catch up.

Talk to the school to see how you can help at home. Encouraging your child's first language at home is also a big help. Reading with them and having conversations in your home language can really support their language development. This, in turn, helps them with their second language too.

Read aloud daily in your language and talk about what is being learned at school. Children quickly transfer knowledge between languages. Encourage involvement in French and English activities outside of school: books, cultural events, music, festivals, educational television and summer camps. Visit the SD72 Learning Hub for Home Instructional Resources.

Moving a student from one program to another requires careful consideration. The French Immersion program is inclusive of all learners and school teams work to support all students so that they successfully complete the French Immersion program. A student or parent can request to move out of the French Immersion program by speaking with the school principal (or a school counsellor at middle or secondary school).