International Languages / ESL

Language is our principal means of communication. As societies around the world become more closely linked through advances in technology, the ability to communicate in more than one language becomes increasingly important. 

The study of languages helps students to express themselves with confidence and develops their ability to solve problems and to think creatively. These skills enable students to analyse and use information from around the world and to communicate effectively in the target language for both business and personal purposes.

The International languages’ programs develop students’ oral communication and listening skills, and enhances their general learning skills. In addition, the interdisciplinary nature of language allows students to explore such related areas of study as history, geography, music, art, literature, business, and world issues.  (Ontario Curriculum: International Languages 2014)  We accomplish this through an action-oriented classroom and an inquiry-based approach to learning in which communication and interaction are the main focus.

ESL courses build on students’ previous education and language knowledge to expand their academic vocabulary and study skills to facilitate their transition to the mainstream school program.  ESL courses prepare students to use English with increasing fluency and accuracy in both classroom and social situations.

 

Courses

French

​Grade 9	​Grade 10	​Grade 11	​Grade 12
​Academic (FSF1D1)	​Academic (FSF2D1)	University (​FSF3U1)	University (FSF4U1)
W. Pre-IB (FSF1DZ)	W. Pre-​IB (FSF2DZ)	IB (FSF3U./Z)	IB (FSF4UZ)
​Applied (​FSF1P1) ​		​	​
Open (FSF10)

ESL levels A, B, C, D and E are offered at various grade levels.

Please note: Not all course will be available every year at The Dr. G. W. Williams S.S.  Course offerings and availability may vary based on student interest and staffing requirements.

 

Opportunities

The Moderns Department hosts a variety of field trips throughout the school year in order to provide our students with authentic language opportunities. Our field trips change as new and exciting language opportunities arise. Some examples of past field trips include French films, an African drumming course, a cooking class with a French Chef, a scavenger hunt at St. Lawrence Market, and a visit to the Distillery District Holiday Market.

Dr. G. W. Williams’ students have the opportunity to participate in a three month or one month exchange through the ISE (International Student Exchange) program.  There are exchange opportunities for every Dr. G. W. Williams’ Moderns’ student!  More information can be found on the ISE website: 

Are you looking for a summer program to learn French in Canada? “Explore” offers a five-week bursary program where the cost of tuition, meals, and accommodation is covered.  

 

How can I improve in French class?

Work on oral language:

• Aim to “communicate and interact”

• Participate frequently in class discussions

• Speak to your peers spontaneously in French

• Speak to your teacher in French without prompting

• Follow a French podcast and  French-language Instagram pages

• Listen to French Youtubers, tv shows and movies 

• Make and describe connections

• Practice presentations in front of the mirror, a friend, a relative, a teacher, etc.

 

Work on written language:

• Use informal feedback to revise final products

• Proofread and edit work before submission (grammar, spelling, sentence structure)

• Follow assignment outlines and review evaluations 

• Practice language structures frequently (try your course pack or Quizlet)

• Form a study group to work with peers. Make a collaborative vocab chart!

 

Overall 

• Follow written/verbal instructions and look for cues to help you understand

• Show your thinking in ways that are unique to you

• Demonstrate critical thinking

• Use analysis skills modelled in class discussions/lessons in assignments

• Ask lots of questions! 

• Speak in French as often as possible!

• Come in for extra help!

 

Additional Practice