- 1Overview of the Program
- 1.1Why learn a second language?
- 1.2What is the difference between French Immersion and Extended French Programs at KCI?
- 1.3New Program: Applied Immersion
- 2Course Selection Chart – French Immersion and Extended French
- 2.1French Immersion
- 2.2Extended French
- 3Grade 9 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
- 3.1Visual Arts – AVI 1OF
- 3.2Introduction to Business – BBI 1OF
- 3.3Individual and Family Living – HIF 1OF
- 3.4Geography of Canada – CGC 1DF
- 3.5French Immersion and Extended French, Academic – FIF 1DI / FEF 1DI
- 4Grade 10 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
- 4.1Canadian History – CHC 2DF (Academic), CHC 2PF (Applied)
- 4.2Civics – CHV 2OF
- 4.3Career Studies – GLC 2OF
- 4.4French Immersion and Extended French – FIF 2DI (Academic), FIF 2PI (Applied), FEF 2DI (Academic)
- 5Grade 11 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
- 5.1Current Indigenous Issues – NDA 3MF
- 5.2Entrepreneurship – BDI 3CF
- 5.3World History to the Sixteenth Century – CHW 3MF
- 5.4Presentation and Speaking Skills – EPS 3OF
- 5.5Co-operative Education – COOP2F
- 5.6French Immersion and Extended French – FIF 3UI (University), FIF 3OI (Open), FEF 3UI (University)
- 6Grade 12 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
- 6.1French Immersion and Extended French – FIF 4UI (University), FIF 4OI (Open), FEF 4UI (University)
- 7Core French – Course Descriptions
- 7.1Core French, Grade 9 Academic – FSF 1DI
- 7.2Core French, Grade 10 Academic – FSF 2DI
- 7.3Core French, Grade 11 University – FSF 3UI
- 7.4Core French, Grade 12 University – FSF 4UI
- 8Spanish – Course Descriptions
- 8.1Spanish, Grade 10 Academic – LWS BDI
- 8.2Spanish, Grade 11 University – LWS CUI
- 8.3Spanish, Grade 12 University – LWS DUI
- 9Enrichment – Exchanges, Travel, Club, Exams and Activities
- 9.1Swiss-Ontario Exchange with Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- 9.2France-Ontario Exchange with Montpellier, France
- 9.3Experiences Canada Exchange
- 9.4St-Donat, Québec
- 9.5French Club
- 9.6Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF)
- 9.7Advanced Placement (AP)
- 9.8Field Trips
- 9.9Point Pelée
- 9.10Théâtre français de Toronto
- 9.11Art/ L’Art
- 9.12Third Party Opportunities:
- 9.13Canadian Education Exchange Foundation (CEEF)
- 9.14YMCA Summer Work Student Exchange Program
- 9.15Explore Program
- 9.16Francophone University Visits
- 9.17Recent accolades:
- 9.18Poetry in Voice / Les Voix de la Poésie
- 9.19French Olympics / Les olympiques de français
- 9.20Les Zinspirés
- 9.22Alex Seiling: Beginning Teaching Award
- 9.23Nicole Verhoeve : Teacher 5 Étoiles (ACPI)
- 9.24Adam Smit and Alex Seiling : Published Authors
Welcome to the KCI languages department – home of Kitchener-Waterloo’s only French Immersion program!
Explore our site to uncover the wide range of cultural and language opportunities at our school and in our community – not only in French, but in Spanish too!
Overview of the Program
Why learn a second language?
Through learning a second language, students:
- develop a deeper understanding of their own and other cultures
- tend to become more tolerant and respectful of other cultures
- develop enhanced creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- develop an intellectual rigour useful in many disciplines
- strengthen their first language skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening
- possess a competitive advantage in many careers, both in Canada and internationally
- gain a lifelong ability to communicate with more people
- have more opportunities to enjoy literature, art, music, theatre, travel, and personal relationships
- can learn other languages more easily
To cite an American study, students of foreign languages score much higher on standardized tests conducted in English. In its 1992 report, College Bound Seniors: The 1992 Profile of SAT and Achievement Test Takers, the College Entrance Examination Board reported that students who averaged 4 or more years of foreign language study scored higher on the verbal section of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) than those who had studied 4 or more years in any other subject area. In addition, the average mathematics score for individuals who had taken 4 or more years of foreign language study was identical to the average score of those who had studied 4 years of mathematics. These findings are consistent with College Board profiles for previous years.
Why is French the logical 2nd language choice for Canadians?
French is one of Canada’s two official languages. It is widely used and required in many Canadian jobs, particularly in the government. It is the mother tongue of 25 percent of all Canadians. With French, we have the advantage of authentic texts, media, events, products and services prepared for Francophones in this country. Francophone communities across Canada, including in KW, a large numbers of French-speaking teachers and a strong interest in the French language support viable programs throughout the country, and particularly here at KCI. On the world stage:
- The number of people who speak French is more than 350,000,000.
- French is an official language in over 30 countries and is commonly spoken in another 46 countries across the globe.
- French and English are the languages of world diplomacy. French is an official working language of the United Nations, the International Red Cross, the International Olympic Committee, the European Union, NATO, UNESCO, the International Labour Bureau and many other international organizations.
- French is the second most frequently known language by Europeans in addition to their mother tongue. Nearly 1/5 of non-Francophone Europeans say they know French.
- French is the second most frequently taught language in the world. It is the second most prevalent language on the Internet.
“Nowadays, bilingualism is increasingly viewed as a certified asset, one that provides mobility and insight. According to Karl Moore, a management specialist at McGill University, there is a disproportionate number of Canadians running large international organizations the world over. The fact that they come from a smaller, and bilingual, country makes them better suited than, say, Americans or Britons to understand and handle the various cultural sensitivities at play in the global economy.” – Benoit Aubin, “Speaking in Tongues,” Maclean’s, December 9, 2002
What Students Have to Say About Language Education:
- “Language courses at KCI are fantastic!”
- “Les cours de langues à KCI sont fantastiques!”
- “¡Los cursos de idiomas sont fantásticos en KCI!”
Why consider French Immersion?
In addition to a certificate attesting to their level of proficiency in the French language, students also experience academic rigour and a heightened cultural awareness. French Immersion certification also gives students advanced standing in accessing the post-secondary programs of choice – including courses in French and francophone programs. It also expands a student’s employment opportunities in Canada and abroad. The French Immersion program is designed so that students will be able to accept employment in which French is the working language.
Who should consider French Immersion?
- Students entering Grade 9 from an established elementary French Immersion Program who are looking for a highly academic setting and program that offers multiple opportunities for enrichment.
- Students coming from francophone backgrounds may also be eligible to enter the program.
What is the difference between French Immersion and Extended French Programs at KCI?
French Immersion or Extended French students at KCI are enrolled in the same classes. Here are the major differences:
|French Immersion||Extended French|
|Credits||10 credits in French||7 credits in French|
|Goal of the program||Students will be able to take courses at the college or university level in which French is the language of instruction and will be able to accept employment in which French is the working language.||Students will be able to function in a French-speaking community.|
The 10 or 7 credits are made up of courses that specialize in Language, Visual Arts, Business Studies, Family Studies, Canadian Geography, Canadian History, Civics, Careers, Co-op & World History. See the Course Selection Chart for specific details or contact the KCI Guidance Department.
New Program: Applied Immersion As of 2016, French Immersion students who are not entering into the Academic stream in high school can now choose to stay in French Immersion! Students who learn at the Applied level can choose to continue in the Applied French Immersion program until the end of Grade 12. Upon successful completion of the program, they will receive an Applied French Immersion Certificate.
Course Selection Chart – French Immersion and Extended French
- involves the completion of at least ten (10) credits delivered in French
- Goal: Students will be able to take courses at the college or university level in which French is the language of instruction and will be able to accept employment in which French is the working language.
|French Immersion Electives||Two (2) of:
||One (1) of:
*Note: These courses are offered at the academic and applied levels (gr. 10) and the university and college levels (gr. 11 and 12)
**Note: Co-op is offered as a two-credit option. One credit will count towards the Immersion Diploma and the other will count towards a student’s overall credit count; the placement is in French but the in-class portion is in English.
- involves the completion of at least seven (7) credits delivered in French
- Goal: Students will be able to function in a French-speaking community.
|Extended French Electives||One (1) of:
*Note: This course is offered at the academic and applied levels (gr. 10).
**Note: Co-op is offered as a two-credit option. One credit will count towards the Immersion Diploma and the other will count towards a student’s overall credit count; the placement is in French but the in-class portion is in English.
Grade 9 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
Visual Arts – AVI 1OF
What does KCI Arts have to offer you? Take this course and experience a little bit of everything including painting, drawing, sculpting, graphics, and art history. We recommend that you take this foundation course before any other art course at KCI.
Introduction to Business – BBI 1OF
This course introduces students to the world of business. Students will develop an understanding of the functions of business, including accounting, marketing, information and communication technology, human resources, and production, and of the importance of ethics and social responsibility. This course builds a foundation for further studies in business and helps students develop the business knowledge and skills they will need in their everyday lives.
Individual and Family Living – HIF 1OF
This course explores the challenges faced by all people: how to meet basic needs, how to relate to others, how to manage resources, and how to become responsible members of society. Students will acquire knowledge and skills that are needed to make the transition to adulthood. Teachers will instruct students in developing interpersonal, decision-making, and practical skills related to daily life. Students will explore the functioning of families and the diversities found among families and within society.
Geography of Canada – CGC 1DF
This course explores Canada’s distinct and changing character and the geographic systems and relationships that shape it. Students will investigate the interactions of natural and human systems within Canada, as well as Canada’s economic, cultural, and environmental connections to other countries. Students will use a variety of geo-technologies and inquiry and communication methods to analyze and evaluate geographic issues and present their findings.
French Immersion and Extended French, Academic – FIF 1DI / FEF 1DI
This course provides opportunities for students to speak and interact in French independently in a variety of real-life and personally relevant contexts. Students will develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, as well as their ability to communicate in French with confidence, by using language learning strategies introduced in the elementary French Immersion program. Students will enhance their knowledge of the French language through the study of Monsieur Ibrahim et les fleurs du Coran by Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt. They will also increase their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities, and will develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning. For further enrichment, join the French Club.
Grade 10 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
Canadian History – CHC 2DF (Academic), CHC 2PF (Applied)
This mandatory course will take you through two world wars, the roar of the twenties and the depression of the thirties. You’ll learn about beatniks and hippies, communists and dictators, sovereigntists and separatists as you travel the decades of the 20th Century.
Civics – CHV 2OF
What is the objective of this course? For students to become more informed, responsible and active citizens locally, nationally, and internationally. Students explore the role of citizens and the government of Canada. Subjects to be explored include the basic responsibilities of citizens, how decisions are made, and the different levels of government and their functions. Global citizenship will also be considered.
Career Studies – GLC 2OF
This course readies students for the work world of the 21st century as it teaches them to develop and achieve personal goals that are education, career, and community oriented. Students will evaluate their interests, abilities and their personalities before undertaking a career search, as well as preparing for work life through résumés, cover letters, interviews, and creating their own personalized portfolios.
French Immersion and Extended French – FIF 2DI (Academic), FIF 2PI (Applied), FEF 2DI (Academic)
This course provides students with extensive opportunities to communicate, interact, and think critically and creatively in French. Students will use a variety of language learning strategies in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, and will respond to and interact with print, oral, visual, and electronic texts. Students will develop their knowledge of the French language through the study of contemporary French literature. They will also increase their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities, and will develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning. This course is intended to prepare students for the compulsory Grade 11 course. For further enrichment, join the French Club.
Grade 11 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
Current Indigenous Issues – NDA 3MF
This course focuses on existing and emerging issues of importance to Indigenous peoples in Canada. Students will investigate issues related to identity, relationships among Indigenous peoples and between Indigenous peoples and other Canadians, sovereignty principles as presented by Indigenous peoples, and the contemporary challenges posed by these issues. Students will also examine such topics as language preservation, the responsibilities of Indigenous women and men, and the need for dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Entrepreneurship – BDI 3CF
This course focuses on ways in which entrepreneurs recognize opportunities, generate ideas and organize resources to plan successful ventures that enable them to achieve their goals. Students will create a venture plan for a school-based or student-run business. Through hands-on experiences, students will have opportunities to develop the values, traits, and skills most often associated with successful entrepreneurs.
World History to the Sixteenth Century – CHW 3MF
This course is a survey of ancient and medieval history to the Renaissance. While focusing largely on the Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Medieval experience, the students also study the development of other civilizations around the world. Key components of this course are effective note taking and essay writing, skills relevant to postsecondary studies.
Presentation and Speaking Skills – EPS 3OF
This course emphasizes the knowledge and skills required to plan and make effective presentations and to speak effectively in both formal and informal contexts, using such forms as reports, speeches, debates, panel discussions, storytelling, recitations, interviews, and multimedia presentations. Students will research and analyze the content and characteristics of convincing speeches and the techniques of effective speakers; design and rehearse presentations for a variety of purposes and audiences; select and use visual and technological aids to enhance their message; and assess the effectiveness of their own and others’ presentations.
Co-operative Education – COOP2F
This is a new KCI offering in the French Immersion program for 2016. French Immersion and Extended French students have the opportunity to gain real-world work experience. Students participate in a Francophone job setting, exploring a possible career choice. Particularly, students may be placed in elementary school positions, helping teach French Immersion classes. Native French-speakers and strong French as a Second Language students may have other placement opportunities, depending on their fields of interest and the availability of Francophone positions in Kitchener-Waterloo. This option is available as a 2-credit co-op, where one credit will count towards the Immersion Diploma and the other will count towards a student’s overall credit count; the placement is in French but the in-class portion is in English.
French Immersion and Extended French – FIF 3UI (University), FIF 3OI (Open), FEF 3UI (University)
The grade eleven course explores the francophone identity in Canada and Europe. Students explore these identities through news media, the literature of Guy de Maupassant, and modern plays from the Théâtre Français de Toronto. Ultimately, students analyse how these far-away cultures contribute to their own intercultural understanding of who they are, and how they fit into the larger francophone community here at home. For further enrichment, join the French Club.
Grade 12 Immersion/Extended – Course Descriptions
French Immersion and Extended French – FIF 4UI (University), FIF 4OI (Open), FEF 4UI (University)
You’ve made it! This is the culminating course in the French Immersion program. What better way to celebrate than to take a road trip! Students take the 401 to La belle province, where we spend time learning about the similarities and differences we have with our Québécois cousins. Next, we hop on a plane to Paris where we rent our own apartments, and find jobs to fund our vacations to the Côte d’Azur and the Cannes International Film Festival. Lastly, we cross the Mediterranean to Africa, home to a majority of the world’s Francophones and the setting for our novel, Je préfère qu’ils me croient mort… Round table discussions, a film critique, seminars and passion projects permeate our course, all as we prepare to continue our journey of bilingualism at the postsecondary level. For further enrichment, join the French Club or sign up for the DELF and/or AP exams.
Core French – Course Descriptions
Students in Ontario must complete at least grade 9 Core French at either the Applied or Academic level. Students at KCI may then choose to continue in French at the grade 10, 11 and 12 academic levels. Note: A 2nd credit in languages satisfies a “Group 1” Compulsory Credit. A 3rd credit in languages satisfies a “Group 2″ Compulsory Credit.
Core French, Grade 9 Academic – FSF 1DI
This course emphasizes the further development of oral communication, reading, and writing skills. Students will build on and apply their knowledge of French while exploring a variety of themes, such as relationships, trends and careers. Thematic readings, which include a selection of short stories, articles, and poems, will serve as stepping stones to oral and written activities. Prerequisite: Minimum of 600 hours of elementary Core French instruction, or equivalent
Core French, Grade 10 Academic – FSF 2DI
This course is designed to enable students to increase their knowledge of the French language, further develop their language skills and deepen their understanding and appreciation of francophone culture around the world. Exploring a variety of themes, students will develop and apply critical thinking skills in discussion, in their analysis and interpretation of texts and in their own writing effectively. This course is intended to prepare students for the grade 11 University preparation course. Prerequisite: Grade 9 Core French, Academic or Applied
Core French, Grade 11 University – FSF 3UI
This course draws on a variety of themes to promote extensive development of reading and writing skills and to reinforce oral communication skills. Students will gain a greater understanding of French-speaking cultures in Canada and around the world through their reading of a variety of materials, including a short novel or a play. Students will produce various written assignments, including a formal essay. The use of correct grammar and appropriate language conventions in both spoken and written French will be emphasized throughout the course. Prerequisite: Grade 10 Core French, Academic
Core French, Grade 12 University – FSF 4UI
This course provides extensive opportunities for students to speak and interact in French independently. Students will apply language-learning strategies in a wide variety of real-life situations, and will continue to develop their creative and critical thinking skills through responding to and interacting with a variety of oral and written texts. Students will also continue to enrich their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities and to develop the skills necessary for life-long language learning. Prerequisite: Grade 11 Core French, University Preparation
Spanish – Course Descriptions
Students may choose to take elective courses in Spanish in grades 10, 11 and 12. Note: A 2nd credit in languages satisfies a “Group 1” Compulsory Credit. A 3rd credit in languages satisfies a “Group 2″ Compulsory Credit.
Spanish, Grade 10 Academic – LWS BDI
This course is designed as an introductory language class for non-native speakers. The instruction, application and review are highly interactive and develop essential skills to handle daily situations. During this course the emphasis is on the development of listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. At the end of the semester, students will be equipped with the necessary language to understand native speakers and communicate effectively. This course is intended to prepare students for the next course in sequence, LWS 3UI.
Spanish, Grade 11 University – LWS CUI
This course offers students opportunities to further develop competence and confidence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the language of study. Students will participate in interactive activities (e.g., discussions about literature, travel, shopping) in which they will further develop their knowledge of linguistic elements. They will continue to explore aspects of culture in regions of the world where the language is spoken, including fashion, historical figures, art, and architecture. Students will enhance their critical and creative thinking skills through reading diverse materials, including original literature, and will explore a variety of personal and professional contexts in which knowledge of the international language is required. Prerequisite: LWS BDI or approval from the Languages Department Head.
Spanish, Grade 12 University – LWS DUI
This course prepares students for postsecondary studies in the international language being studied. Students will continue to refine and enhance their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in the language, with the goal of using these communication skills in a variety of personal, academic, and professional contexts. Using a wide variety of sources, including original texts in the language, students will consolidate their language skills as they use increasingly complex linguistic elements and language conventions. Students will also have opportunities to enrich their knowledge of aspects of culture in regions where the language is spoken, including issues related to popular culture, linguistic communities in Canada, literature, history, geography, and the arts. Prerequisite: LWS CUI or approval from the Languages Department Head.
Enrichment – Exchanges, Travel, Club, Exams and Activities
The Languages department is dynamic, thriving and continually evolving to provide students with authentic experiences and to meet their needs. On top of the French Immersion, Core French and Spanish programs offered, there are a number of cultural opportunities available to enrich language learning.
Swiss-Ontario Exchange with Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Looking to travel abroad and immerse yourself in a new culture? KCI is now offering French Immersion and Core French students a reciprocal exchange opportunity with a Swiss school in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. This exchange entails travail to Geneva, Lausanne, and a home stay in Neuchâtel. During their home stay, participants will be hosted by a Swiss student in their home and will get to experience life as a Swiss student. They will also experience Swiss culture through activities like skiing the alps, tasting fondu, visiting the United Nations Office in Geneva, and visiting CERN. This international travel opportunity fosters French language development, builds friendship, and promotes personal growth and learning.
France-Ontario Exchange with Montpellier, France
Imagine having the opportunity to live like the French for two weeks! You no longer need to imagine it: it can happen. KCI has been offering students enrolled in French Immersion and Core French courses a reciprocal exchange with a school in Montpellier, France since 2005. This exchange entails travel to Paris and a home stay in Montpellier, France for two weeks as well as hosting a French student for 10 days in their home. Students will see Paris and other key sites in France and experience all of the history and culture it has to offer. This kind of international travel promotes personal growth and friendship across two cultures and provides an unparalleled linguistic and cultural experience in a truly authentic milieu. It is a learning and travel opportunity of a lifetime!
Experiences Canada Exchange
Of course, we do not have to travel to France to be immersed in the French language and Francophone culture, so KCI also offers an exchange program within our own borders. Our inaugural exchange within Canada was in 2016 with an Acadian Francophone school in Charlottetown. Students from Charlottetown spent 9 days in our students’ homes and in May 2016, our students stayed in their partner’s homes in beautiful Prince Edward Island as tourist season was gearing up at the seaside. Beyond the rich linguistic experience and lifelong friendships this exchange has forged, day trips included Toronto and Niagara Falls for our guests and sea kayaking and visits to Green Gables and historical downtown, including sites involving Canadian Confederation.
This five-day cultural experience includes traditional québécois outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and more, as well as indoor activities, workshops, food, and language-learning activities.
KCI runs a French Club, where interested students meet to explore francophone culture from throughout the world. Activities include making crêpes and other delicacies, playing pétanque and various other games, discovering French humour through media, and enjoying French stories, music and films.
Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF)
The DELF provides internationally-recognized French language accreditation. This diploma is offered by the French Ministry of Education and certifies the level of language proficiency of a second language learner in French. KCI’s Grade 12 students have the option to take this test. They may complete this test for personal, academic or professional purposes, and can include the DELF qualification on their résumés as a competitive advantage. The DELF also provides life-long certification and is recognized as a certified language assessment for acceptance into a French university (level B2 or higher). For more information, visit the Alliance française. (Link: http://www.af.ca/ottawa/exam-centre/delf-dalf/) Ontario’s new Languages Curriculum is also based on the same framework as the DELF, the Common European Framework of Reference. (Link: http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/linguistic/cadre1_en.asp). See the new Languages Curriculum here: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/secondary/fsl912curr2014.pdf.
Advanced Placement (AP)
KCI offers the French Language AP exam. The AP program is an American standard of academic excellence. Students who achieve a level 4 or above on the exam may be awarded an elective credit upon advancement to a university that recognizes AP test results.
Experiential learning is an important part of a student’s secondary career. KCI is centrally located in our community which gives students the ability to walk to many off campus events. The school also directly faces the ION on King Street and is located near many GRT routes.
KCI has well-established links with its surrounding community. This enables the Languages department to arrange field trips and other authentic experiences for its students such as special viewings of foreign-language films at the Princess Cinemas and the Gorge Cinema in Elora. Business classes have a variety of guest speakers and field trips to places such as D2L, the Working Centre and Google.
All grade 9 geography students are invited to participate in an overnight excursion to Point Pelée National Park, situated at the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland. Activities include geocaching, exploring the ecology of all 5 of its ecosystems, and a tour of a kilometre-long greenhouse. All services are available in both languages of instruction for students enrolled in English stream courses or French Immersion courses.
Théâtre français de Toronto
As a component of the Grade 11 course, French Immersion students have the opportunity to write and publish a written play. Students from all over Southern Ontario submit their work to the contest in the hopes of seeing their work realised. The top 5 playwrights head to Toronto to attend a workshop to refine their work. One student is selected and a professional team takes over to interpret and produce the play for the public.
Students enrolled in French Immersion art will have many opportunities to explore the impact of art in the school community and the larger community. In 2018, a collective art piece created by grade 9 Immersion students was featured at Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery (Norval Morrisseau inspired mural). In 2019, students have worked with kindergarten students from King Edward Public School teaching them some of their first words in French and doing art with them. Students also partook in the creation of a Santa Claus parade float and help painted sets for the school musical.
Third Party Opportunities:
Canadian Education Exchange Foundation (CEEF)
CEEF is a non-profit organisation that matches Canadian students with international students in a variety of countries. Exchanges are available during the school year (for two or three month duration) or during the summer (for one month). Students immerse themselves in a culture, expand their ability to communicate in the target language, and host their exchange partner as a member of their family. Popular destinations include France, Spain, Italy, and Germany. To learn more, please visit ceef.ca.
YMCA Summer Work Student Exchange Program
This YMCA program offers students aged 16 and 17, the opportunity to participate in a 6 week exchange over the summer. Students improve their second official language skills but also gain important employment experience in the target language. Outside of their work placements, students participate in group excursions and activities with other youth participating in the program. For more information, please visit http://my.ymcagta.org/netcommunity/page.aspx?pid=539.
This French Language Program allows students to explore another region of Canada for a relatively low cost. Meals, accommodations, activities, workshops are all designed to provide an immersive experience for students. Classes are adapted to individual’s language level and the program is designed to have students explore a francophone region while meeting students from across the country. To find more information, visit https://www.myexplore.ca.
Francophone University Visits
KCI promotes and supports students in their continuation of French studies following secondary school. Students are invited to attend francophone university presentations like that of the University of Ottawa, hosted at KCI, or attend information sessions about opportunities in French Studies at our local universities.
Poetry in Voice / Les Voix de la Poésie
Poetry in Voice offers two competitions yearly, where students from across the country compete in memorizing and reciting poetry. Competitions begin at the school level before moving on to online qualifiers and the national finals. KCI students placed 5th nationally in 2016, and 2nd nationally in 2017. Over $7,500 in travel and prizes are awarded annually.
French Olympics / Les olympiques de français
In 2017 as part of Canada’s 150th anniversary, Glendon College offered a French Olympics for grade 11 students enrolled in French language schools or French Immersion programs across Ontario. KCI students placed 3rd in the province, beating our many francophone schools in challenges that centered around linguistic skills, dramatic arts as well as cultural and historical knowledge.
Since 2019, our grade 11 French Immersion students have been competing in Les Zinspirés, a playwriting competition for the Théâtre Français de Toronto. Three KCI students have won the competition, refining their plays in multi-day workshops, becoming published playwrights, and having their plays staged for public audiences. Sofia V., Lily T., and Grace F. are the only non-Francophone winners of this competition from hundreds of submissions across the province — a testament to the strength of our program and students.
Each year, KCI encourages grade 12 French students to partake in the DELF; an internationally recognized test designed to evaluate students’ ability to understand and produce both oral and written texts in French. Typically our students write the A1, A2, B1, or B2 levels but last year, one of our students successfully wrote the C1 exam (designed for proficient French users).
Alex Seiling: Beginning Teaching Award
In 2019, our own Emily Alexandra (Alex) Seiling received the OTIP Teaching Award in the Beginning Teacher Category. Madame Seiling is a French Immersion teacher of family studies, families in Canada, civics, Canadian history, and careers. She works to form partnerships with community groups, teachers, and educational stakeholders to provide experiences for her students that develop their leadership abilities and increase their civic awareness.
Nicole Verhoeve : Teacher 5 Étoiles (ACPI)
In 2020, our own Nicole Verhoeve was selected by l’Association canadienne des professionnels de l’immersion (ACPI) as a spokesperson for the “Teacher 5 étoiles” campaign, a national campaign aimed at promoting careers in French Immersion education across the country. The teachers chosen for the campaign are known to have an expertise in teaching and in languages: exploring cultures, encouraging progress, testing innovative teaching methods, and turning learning into a passion. At KCI, Madame Verhoeve is a French Immersion teacher of geography, Indigenous studies, and French Immersion language courses.
Adam Smit and Alex Seiling : Published Authors
Our department members are dedicated to learning more about how our French language learners learn and how language teachers can impact confidence and student learning. In 2017, Alex Seiling published The Coupling of Second Language Learning Motivation and Achievement According to Gender. In 2021, our Department Head of Languages, Adam Smit, published Vers une identité bilingue, vers un Canada bilingue? in Le Journal de l’Immersion.