The FSL Curriculum

The study of French is an important part of the secondary school curriculum. French is not only one of Canada’s two official languages, but is also widely used around the world. Knowledge of a second language is valuable for a number of reasons. Through learning a second language, students can strengthen their first-language skills and enhance their critical and creative thinking abilities; they also tend to become more tolerant and respectful of other cultures.

In addition, the ability to communicate in another language provides students with a distinct advantage in a number of careers, both in Canada and internationally. The aim of the new French as a second language (FSL) curriculum is to prepare students to perform effectively in the challenging world they will face by providing them with the skills they will need to communicate in a second language. To make the curriculum relevant to students’ lives, knowledge and skills are taught in contexts that reflect their interests and experiences.

Students will be able to choose from courses that lead to study at the postsecondary level or to the workplace, depending on their individual interests, strengths, and aspirations. 

French as a Seond Language Curriculum - Ministry of Education

All courses in the Native languages program cover oral communication, reading, and writing; vocabulary, language conventions, and grammar; and use of information technology. Students also become familiar with the writing and sound systems of the language under study, and develop an appreciation of Native language and culture. All courses in the Native languages program provide an opportunity for students to enhance their sense of cultural identity and self-worth.

The Native languages that are recognized in the Native languages program are the following: Cayuga, Cree, Delaware, Mohawk, Ojibwe, Oji-Cree, and Oneida. Students may study one or more of these languages in the program.

Native Languages Curriculum - Ministry of Education