Language
Immersion
A program that gives students a chance to learn proficiency in a new language or improve their skills in a language.
What schools offer AP Language Immersion?
Edmonton Public Schools Division (EPSB)
Strathcona High School (French, German)
Lillian Osborne High School (Spanish, French)
M.E. LaZerte High School (Mandarin)
Edmonton Catholic School District (ECSD)
Archbishop MacDonald High School (Spanish, French)
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Archbishop O'leary Catholic High School (Spanish)
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Austin O'biren Catholic High School (Spanish)
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Holy Trinity Catholic High School (Spanish)
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And more...
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Links
For more information on specific language & cultures programs and a full list of schools that offer these programs, explore these links to find out more!
Edmonton Public School Division:
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https://www.epsb.ca/programs/language/
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Edmonton Catholic School District​​:
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https://www.ecsd.net/language-and-culture-programs
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What should you know about Language Immersion?
Curriculum
The curriculum aligns with the Alberta Curriculum guidelines but is delivered primarily in the target language.
Immersion programs may also have additional components focused on linguistic competence, cultural understanding, and the practical application of the immersion language in daily life.
Courses & Structure
Immersion programs often start with almost full instruction in the target language in the early grades. Then, as students progress, the instruction in English gradually increases. This varies program to program.
Courses typically cover standard subjects such as mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, all taught in the immersion language.
Specialized courses might be offered to enhance language skills, for example literature in the immersion language, history of the regions where the language is spoken, and cultural studies.
Exams and Scores
Standardized exams, such as the Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs) and Diploma Exams in Alberta, are administered in both the immersion language and English, depending on the subject.
Grading systems are consistent with other Alberta schools, but students are also assessed on their proficiency in the immersion language. Regular assessments may include oral proficiency tests, written assignments, and comprehension exercises.
Benefits
French immersion is the most popular program in Edmonton, with thousands of students enrolled in various elementary and secondary schools. Other languages, such as Mandarin and Spanish, also have a growing number of participants.
Being involved in immersion programs can often strengthen students in areas like problem-solving, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.
Prerequisites, Eligibility, & Cost
Most language immersion schools in Edmonton start at the kindergarten or early elementary level. Entry requirements usually include age-appropriate assessments for new students. But for later entry, students may be required to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in the language.
Some programs are designed for native English speakers learning a second language (like French), while others may be for native speakers of other languages.
Public language immersion schools, like the ones under Edmonton Public Schools (EPSB) or Edmonton Catholic School Division (ECSD), are usually tuition-free for residents, but there may be additional fees for materials, activities, or transportation.
Private language immersion schools can have varying tuition rates, ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 CAD per year, depending on the school and program specifics.
More Information
Schools often offer additional resources such as after-school language programs, cultural clubs, language camps, and exchange programs to reinforce immersion learning.
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Benefits
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Cognitive benefits, including enhanced memory, multitasking skills, and problem-solving abilities
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Improved academic performance in various subjects
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Enhanced cultural awareness and empathy
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Offers more opportunities for international studies and careers
Drawbacks
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Potential initial difficulty in English language development
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Difficulty for parents or guardians who do not speak the immersion language to help with schoolwork
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Limited availability of resources and qualified teachers for certain languages
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Transition challenges for students who join later or move from non-immersion programs