Page 12 - The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 9 to 12: French as a Second Language – Core, Extended, and Immersion, 2014

THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM | French as a Second Language
Most students will benefit from explicit classroom instruction regarding the use of French language learning strategies in authentic and relevant contexts. It is important to note that the language learning strategies are not grade or program specific and that they are used to help students communicate effectively and make meaning in their daily interactions and activities. Once students are consciously aware of strategies, have practised using them, can select the most effective ones for a particular task, and can see the link between their own actions and their learning, they will be able to monitor their use of the strategies, set goals for improvement, and become more motivated and more effective French language learners.
Interdependence of Language and Culture
Language and culture are strongly intertwined. Language is not only a major aspect of culture but also a means of accessing other cultural manifestations. Understanding the language is a major advantage when exploring other aspects of a culture. When studying a language, and the cultures in which it is spoken, students need to recognize that cultures are not homogeneous: diversity exists not only between but also within cultures. It is important for FSL educators to help students develop their understanding of, and appreci- ation and respect for, diverse cultures. Two essential elements of the FSL curriculum are intercultural awareness and intercultural competence. Educators encourage students to develop their intercultural awareness by exploring diverse cultures and expanding their ability to differentiate between personal, cultural, and universal behaviours, traditions, and beliefs. In addition, educators encourage students to develop the attitudes, knowledge, and skills, including their French-language skills, needed to interact with people in French- speaking cultures effectively and respectfully.
Throughout the FSL curriculum, expectations that deal with the development of intercultural understanding are included in each of the four interconnected strands (Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing). These expectations help students make connections and relate to diverse French-speaking communities and other societies. Students will develop skills in accessing and understanding information about various French-speaking communities and cultures, and will apply that knowledge for the purposes of interaction. Intercultural awareness and understanding are key aspects of global citizenship, which encompasses citizenship at all levels, from the local school and community to Canada and the world beyond.
Emphasis on Critical and Creative Thinking Skills
Learners of a second language are engaged in critical and creative thinking on a daily basis. In order to make sense of what they are hearing, reading, and viewing, and to communicate their messages clearly, students need to solve problems, for example. Problem-solving skills are thus an integral part of learning and interacting in a second language.
In some courses where students have had few opportunities to experience FSL, students will be exposed to a variety of texts with simplified language and will need support and guidance to understand and interpret their messages. As students become more proficient in French, they will use a range of strategies to comprehend and respond to texts. When students think critically about what they are hearing, reading, and viewing, they also begin to develop critical literacy skills.
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