FSL instructors follow a modern communicative / functional approach designed to equip students with effective communication skills for most day-to-day situations or in a work setting.
Widely acknowledged as the best approach for second language instruction, the communicative approach emphasizes the production of meaning in language training and promotes verbal interaction in real life-like settings with some tolerance for minor language inaccuracies in grammar or pronunciation.
The communicative approach also determines the order in which language material is presented and the progression of the course in clear thematic/functional units.
Our courses and teaching resources are conveniently based on the Common European Framework of Reference for second language instruction and assessment (CEFR). The level descriptors elaborated in the CEFR are used worldwide identify six main levels of proficiency: A1-A2, the “Basic User” level (Full Beginner to Low Intermediate); B1-B2, the “Independent User” (Intermediate to Upper Intermediate levels) and C1-C2, the advanced User level.
While our program does not include any formal testing at the end of a course, instructors ensure expectations are met on a regular basis by reviewing objectives with students and through oral assessment sessions. Students interested in having their language skills certified are encouraged to register for the DELF exam at one of the Alliance francaise centres in the GTA.
Based on the Common European Framework of Reference for languages, the DELF A1 or A2 (“Diplôme d’Études en Langue française”) are official diplomas delivered by the French Ministry of Education and recognized all over the world. Examination sessions take place 3 times a year at the Alliance française in March, June and November. Currently, registration costs for the DELF are $125.00.