Second Languages
French as a Second Language
Spanish Language & Culture
At ESBCHS, we believe strongly in the value of second languages. With the help of Alberta Education’s research, here are some of the reasons why students should consider studying a second or even a third language:
Intellectual Potential
- Students fluent in two languages score higher in both verbal and non-verbal intelligence.
- Students studying a second language are better in divergent thinking tasks and in memory ability and attention span.
Scholastic Achievement
- Second language students have higher test scores in reading, language and mathematics.
Effect on First Language
- Education in another language significantly strengthens first language skills in areas of reading, vocabulary development, grammar and communication skills.
- The earlier the start, the greater the positive effect on the first language.
Citizenship
- Students studying another language have superior cross-cultural skills and adapt better to varying cultural contexts.
- Students studying another language display greater cultural sensitivity.
Economic Potential
- There is a growing need for qualified speakers of languages other than English in areas of science, technology, medicine and global commerce.
French as a Second Language (FSL)
French 10 (5 credits) - 3 YEAR PROGRAM
This course is designed for beginner French students. Students will learn the French language as well as learning about French culture and will also gain an awareness of where French is spoken in Alberta and in Canada. Project work and hands-on activities will allow students to practice the language in context.
French 20 (5 credits) - 3 YEAR PROGRAM
Recommended prerequisite: 60% in FSL 10 or approval from Department.
Students will expand their skills in understanding and communicating in French. Oral and written comprehension and production skills will continue to be improved upon at this level. Part of the program of studies in FSL 20 will have the students continue to learn vocabulary and expressions in personal, educational, public and occupational contexts. Students will gain an awareness of where French is spoken in Alberta and in Canada. Project work, field trips and hands-on activities will allow students to practice the language in context.
French 30 (5 credits) - 3 YEAR PROGRAM
Recommended prerequisite: 60% in FSL 20 or approval from Department.
Students will focus on practicing listening and speaking skills with continued emphasis on developing reading and writing skills. Part of the program of studies in FSL 30 will have the students learning vocabulary and expressions in personal, educational, public and occupational contexts. Students will gain an awareness of where French is spoken outside of Canada. Project work, field trips, hands-on activities, viewing of the programs and movies, and participation in cultural activities will allow students to practice the language in context.
Spanish Language & Culture
Spanish Language & Culture 10 (5 credits)
This entry level course is designed to allow students to communicate orally in Spanish and to attain basic understanding of grammatical structures. This focus is on building the student’s confidence while using the language in everyday situations.
Spanish Language & Culture 20 (5 credits)
Recommended Prerequisite: 60% in Spanish 10 recommended or approval from Department
Students will expand their basic communication skills in Spanish. In addition to ongoing study of oral and written comprehension and production, students will also examine aspects of Latin American culture.
Spanish Language & Culture 30 (5 credits)
Recommended Prerequisite: 60% in Spanish 20 or approval from Department
Students will continue to expand their basic communication skills in Spanish. In addition to ongoing study of oral and written comprehension and production, students will also examine aspects of Latin American culture. Successful completion of Spanish 30 will allow students to enroll in a second-year Spanish course at most post-secondary institutions.