Goals and Rationale
Rationale
Acquiring a new language opens the door to a world of new experiences. As students study a new language, they develop an understanding and appreciation of other people, cultures, beliefs, and ways of life, while also developing a deeper understanding of their own culture and personal identity. They learn new ways to think, learn, and communicate with others, and gain a new perspective on their experiences and the world around them.
As one of Canada’s two official languages, French is a vital part of the Canadian identity. Being able to communicate in both official languages opens the door to unique educational, travel, and career opportunities throughout Canada and the world. French is spoken by over 270 million people worldwide and is an official language of 29 countries. Learners who are proficient in French are able to explore and deepen their understanding of the richness and diversity of la francophonie, the global French-speaking community.
Acquiring French deepens learners’ understanding of the important relationship between language and culture and allows students to transcend cultural boundaries and biases. As globalization increases, it is important that learners become aware that they are a part of a rich cultural and linguistic diversity. Developing linguistic and intercultural competencies increases students’ ability to understand and communicate effectively with people across Canada and around the world.
Canada’s unique cultural heritage is composed of a variety of experiences and perspectives, from those of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit to those of people newly arrived in our country. These rich and varied tapestries of experience are a part of the historical and contemporary foundation of Canada. This curriculum offers opportunities for learners to explore, understand, respect, and appreciate their own and others’ cultural heritage.
As learners gain proficiency in French, they develop many competencies essential to their continued success in life, including critical thinking, creative thinking, and communication skills. For example, learning an additional language is known to enhance students’ learning and literacy in their first language, as well as contributing to their overall cognitive development. As they learn to communicate clearly and effectively in French, students gain transferable skills and processes that contribute to their proficiency as communicators in their other language(s).
Goals
The B.C. Core French curriculum aims to support students' development as educated citizens through the achievement of the following goals. Students are expected to
- use French as a form of self-expression
- communicate with purpose and confidence in French
- explore a variety of French-language texts
- appreciate the interconnectedness of language and culture
- expand their understanding and appreciation of other cultures
- deepen their understanding of their first language and of their own cultural identity
- understand the educational, travel, and career opportunities that acquiring an additional language offers
- foster an appreciation of learning languages