OMLTA AOPLV Spring- Summer 2014 issue

- 5 Questions With/Avec Betty Gormley

- Spring Conference Report - Nuevos sitios web para sus clases de español - Language Contests: Another successful year! What’s Inside: - Meet your OMLTA Board of Directors A Message from the President...... 3 Letter from the Editor...... 4 - Reports on the revised curriculum institutes Meet Your Directors...... 5 Directors in Action...... 6-8 - Des idées pour achever l’approche actionnelle Spring Conference...... 8-10 en français cadre au secondaire Membership Benefits...... 11 The First Five Years ...... 11-12 Take It and Make It Yours.... 12-13 Concours d’art oratoire...... 13-14 5 Questions with / Avec...... 15-16 Language Contests...... 16-21 International Languages .... 21-23 Branchez-vous...... 23 Resource Reviews...... 24 À la prochaine ...... 24 Save the Date ...... 24 ONTARIO MODERN LANGUAGE TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION ONTARIENNE DES PROFESSEURS DE LANGUES VIVANTES

Mission: 2 The OMLTA/AOPLV is committed to:

3 advocate on behalf of language educators; 3 provide leadership in the development of language policy documents and curriculum; 3 provide members with professional development opportunities and resources; and 3 promote the benefits of learning languages.

The vision of the OMLTA/AOPLV is characterized by:

3 improved learning environments for language students; 3 increased importance of language education in Ontario; 3 active participation on issues of importance to all Modern Languages teachers; 3 increased communication with the membership; 3 creating strong partnerships with other organizations; 3 increased professional development opportunities for all Modern Language teachers; and 3 increased membership.

Disclaimer: The information and views set out in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the of- ficial opinion of the Ontario Modern Language Teachers’ Association/Association ontarienne des professeurs de langues vivantes (OMLTA). The OMLTA, its employees, its Board of Directors, or any person acting on their behalf may not be held responsible for the use which may be made of the information contained therein. All use of the masculine in any language to designate individuals or groups of individuals is employed only to lighten text, and serves to identify persons of all genders without discrimination. A Message From the President Welcome to this edition of Communication, Other partners include the Embassy of France in Ottawa which is the online publication of the Ontario Modern sponsoring a French teacher in her participation in the Stage BELC at the Université de Nantes. Language Teachers’ Assocation/Association 3 ontarienne des professeurs de langues vivantes! The OMLTA/AOPLV is enjoying its partnership with the Canadian As your new president for 2014-2015, it gives Association of Second Language Teachers as well as the Fédération me great pleasure to represent this wonderful internationale des professeurs de langues vivantes in the planning subject association. Since 1886 our organiza- of the 2015 World Congress of Modern Languages. Mark your cal- tion has supported language teachers across endars for March 26-28, 2015 where we will host language teach- the province through a great variety, of publications, events and ers from around the world! *We also welcome you to submit your opportunities. workshop proposals for this amazing event, and our upcoming Fall This year is proving to be a banner year for all of the above! Since Conference, to be held in Cambridge this October. Applications to pres- the release of The Ontario Curriculum: French as a Second ent are available via the OMLTA website at http://www.omlta.org. Language: Core, Grades 4–8; Extended, Grades 4–8; Immer- Both are outstanding opportunities for professional development; sion, Grades 1–8, 2013, members of the OMLTA/AOPLV Board of be sure to take part as a presenter or participant! Directors along with members of the Modern Languages Council I thank you for your membership in our fine organization! Please have been involved in creating fact sheets, podcasts and providing take advantage of everything that the OMLTA/AOPLV has to offer one-day workshops. Five of these workshops were held in April and you. May, allowing hundreds of members and interested teachers to be informed about the revised curriculum. Enjoy this edition of Communication! The Ontario Ministry of Education supports our annual Projet à Jayne Evans Québec which will allow 50 Ontario FSL teachers to enhance their language skills and broaden their cultural experiences during their 12-day stay in this magnificent city. Letter From the Editor Dear colleagues,

As the OMLTA begins its 128th year as an association, you are likely among the hundreds of members who are ready (or nearly ready) to breathe that collective sigh of relief as another 4 school year comes to a conclusion. I hope that this year was filled with personal and professional successes, growth, positive memories, and a renewed commitment to our students’ (and our) lifelong learning.

The OMLTA Board of Directors, led by Past President Wanda West and current President Jayne Evans, has been extraordinarily busy over the past academic year. With the release of the revised elementary FSL curriculum, the OMLTA, in conjunction with the Modern Languages Council, ran an unprecedented five regional symposia to help in-service educators across the province on the key messages and major implications of this document. Fact sheets and podcasts to support these initiatives were written, edited, recorded, and published. Those several months of hard work culminated after another successful major OMLTA event, our 2014 Spring Conference, coordinated with gusto by Jennifer Rochon. We also selected our participants for Projet à Québec, awarded bursaries to assist our members to study and travel, attended dozens of regional workshops from the Ministry and countless other stakeholders on behalf of our members, continued planning and preparation for the OMLTA/CASLT/FIPLV World Congress of Languages 2015 (and it’s not too late to submit a workshop proposal!), lauded the young people who participated in the Concours d’art oratoire and other language contests, and much more.

Let me assure you that the OMLTA Board of Directors takes its collective role very seriously, and the dozens of hours per month that each Director spends on tasks and initiatives related to the association are enjoyable yet intense. It is a privilege to be a part of this phenomenal team, and I know that I speak for everyone involved when I say that each new opportunity, nugget of information, and idea shared with and for our members makes us proud to carry on the legacy of the association. You can “meet” your 2014-15 OMLTA Board of Directors in this issue of Communication.

Before our next issue in November, we hope that you will submit your articles, resource reviews, strategies, ideas, and best practices to share with your colleagues across Ontario. Be a part of Communication by emailing your ideas and completed work at [email protected]. Follow us online on Facebook and Twitter, and via our website at http://www.omlta.org.

I wish you all a sensational summer. Warm wishes for this warm weather.

Mes meilleurs vœux, Mit freundlichen Grüßen, Saludos, Cumprimentos, Cordiali saluti, Jimmy Steele Have a great vacation! Editor, Communication Bonnes vacances ! Schöne Ferien! ¡Felices vacaciones! Boas férias! Buone vacanze! Meet Your OMLTA Board of Directors 2013-2014

5 Jayne Evans (President) Niagara Catholic DSB Nicole Czaja (2012-15) French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Rainbow DSB Slovenian, English French, English A Rotary Club exchange to Brazil was the An elementary school vice principal, she brings catalyst for her love of learning languages. a valued perspective to the Board of Directors.

Wanda West (Past President) Waterloo Region DSB Laura Dursley (2013-16) French, English Trillium Lakelands DSB A dedicated skier and cyclist. French, Spanish, English Has worked in Botswana and Ecuador, in addition to many rural areas across Canada.

Jennifer Rochon (1st Vice President) Natasha Feghali (2014-17) Toronto DSB Greater Essex County DSB French, English French, Arabic, Croatian, English The organizer of the successful 2014 Spring Works as a freelance fashion journalist and Conference. even covered major events, such as Copenhagen Fashion Week.

Geoff Collins (2nd Vice President) Durham District DSB Michael Green (2013-16) French, Swedish, English Waterloo Region DSB Loves British comedy, French wine, Swedish French, Spanish, English meatballs, and Canadian living. In addition to teaching vocal music, he sings in, directs, and accompanies various choirs.

Christina Schilling (Secretary) Upper Grand DSB Olga Rubino (2014-16) French, Spanish, German, English; “a smidge” York University of Japanese French, Italian, English, An artist, musician, writer, and avid reader. Has lived on the French Riviera.

Sally de Bruyn (Treasurer) Thames Valley DSB French, Spanish, German, English No Carole Soucy (2014-17) Once road a camel in the Mongolian desert. Photo Renfrew County DSB

Available French, English An active FSL educator for over 20 years.

Susana Beatrice-Gojsic (2014-17) Hamilton-Wentworth DSB French, Italian, English Jimmy Steele Also has a Master’s degree of (Editor - Communication, 2013-16) Public Administration. Toronto DSB German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Icelandic, English Deilyn Campanotti (2013-15) Also President of the Ontario Association of York Region DSB Teachers of German. French, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, English Lived in Cuba for 11 years. integrate cross-curricular programming. We also were reminded of how we, as My name is Susanna Directors and I am so educators are preparing our students Beatrice-Gojsic for the unknown in the 21st century excited to have been nominated as a in Action Director for the OMLTA. I have had a – for types of employment that may 6 not currently exist. An excellent video passion for learning languages since I OMLTA/MLC “SHIFT HAPPENS” helped remind us was a young girl. My family is of Italian of the importance of data in informing heritage and I am fortunate enough to Curriculum Institute our practice, as well as introducing us have been taught to speak, read and I recently attended one of the OMLTA/ to new, surprising data from around the write in Italian. When I was in grade 4, MLC Curriculum Institutes in North Bay, world. We also received a beautiful, in- I remember being so excited because I Ontario. The day was jam packed full valuable new resource – five fact sheets was finally going to learn a third lan- of learning and wonderful activities/ produced by MLC/OMLTA which support guage – French. This passion guided me strategies that were easily adaptable for our teaching, planning, and assessment through to university where I continued classroom use. The content of course, whilst integrating the new curriculum. to study French as a Second Language was aimed at FSL teachers to help them Our final task was one that emphasized and was eventually accepted to the understand and implement the newly the importance and richness of cultural Master of Public Administration Program revised 2013 Ontario French as a Second learning as part of our FSL teaching and at Queen’s University. On the first day LanguageCurriculum; Core French, learning and this activity has been used of class, I quickly realized how valuable Grades 4 – 8; Extended French Grades 4 in several FSL classrooms in our board – my FSL skills were: among the 30 stu- – 8; and French Immersion Grades 1 – 8. Trillium Lakelands District School Board dents accepted into the program – I was since. the only one without a business degree BUT WITH a French degree. The mes- It served as a wonderful extension to sage was clear: French language skills a recent Grade 7 and 8 trip to Quebec are valuable. City. Everyone receives a large paper puzzle shape and illustrates what The opportunities afforded to me Francophone (or other) culture means because of my Second Language skills to them. Our students have represented ultimately led me to a career in teach- the many events that were significant ing. I wanted to share my passion for to their learning, (Circus School, visiting and experience with language. I wanted Ste. Anne de Beaupré, Montmorency children to understand the benefits of Falls, supper at a cabane à sucre) as second language acquisition. I have well as the architecture and current been a Core French Teacher with the daily sights, sounds, music and food of Hamilton Wentworth District School Quebec City. It is a marvelous way to Board for approximately six years and bring culture to life for us as teachers, each day I greet my students with the and by extension, to our students. same excitement and enthusiasm that The feedback was fulsome and consis- I have always had for languages. I use We explored the new curriculum tently positive….from FSL teachers who modelling, shared and guided activi- through the Enduring Ideas upon which had not had any exposure to the revised ties to show my students that they CAN it is based (see image below) through curriculum to those who have spent succeed. I facilitate engagingactivities interactive activities. The participants much time becoming familiar with the where students talk about themselves were teachers from all areas of FSL document. The engagement, discussion and others as they work through authen- and lively discussions and collaborative and participation all led to much tic tasks. It is so motivating to see my learning added to the value of the day. learning. students take risks and participate fully in the FSL classroom. The day was ably facilitated by MLC by Laura Dursley President, Lorraine Richard and an FSL Trillium Lakelands DSB While my past experience has guided my teacher from Northern Ontario, and passion for French, it is professional newly a director on the board of OMLTA, development that has developed my Carole Soucy. skills as a Language teacher. I have been a member of the OMLTA since my We became familiar with the strands of second year of teaching. The member’s the revised curriculum, the emphasis only documents, the articles in Commu- on oral proficiency through developing nication, the Spring and Fall conferenc- speaking and listening skills and how to es have been pivotal in revitalizing my program. Reading about new strategies and usingthese in my classroom have helped me to continuously engage my nication, the Spring and Fall conferenc- we allow them to take the lead in their students. Sharing my experiences as a es have been pivotal in revitalizing my thinking, create an individualized space conference presenter has allowed me program. Reading about new strategies for language acquisition as well as pro- to inspire and learn from other teach- and using these in my classroom have mote the discovery of language through ers. The OMLTA helps to bring a sense helped me to continuously engage my art and or any other subject that is of collaboration and collegiality to all students. Sharing my experiences as a interest to them. 7 Language teachers across Ontario. I am conference presenter has allowed me so excited to continue to connect with to inspire and learn from other teach- I’ve been teaching French Second Lan- so many exceptional language teach- ers. The OMLTA helps to bring a sense guage (FSL) at Eastwood Public School ers, associations, embassies, groups, collaboration and collegiality to all for three years, incorporating different committees, universities, and Faculties Language teachers across Ontario. I am aspects of French language and cul- Education as I embark on thisfantastic so excited to continue to connect with ture into my classroom. At Eastwood, professional opportunity. so many exceptional language teach- we have a multicultural community ers, associations, embassies, groups, of students from Canadian-born and have been taught to speak, read and committees, universities, and Faculties newcomer families. My name is Natasha write in Italian. When I was in grade 4, Education as I embark on thisfantastic E. Feghali and I am so proud to be a I remember being so excited because I professional opportunity. part of the OMLTA Board of Directors. I was finally going to learn a third lan- look forward to collaborating with my guage – French. This passion guided me colleagues and creating an engaging through to university where I continued tapestry of opportunities for our modern to study French as a Second Language Imagine the excitement with which stu- language teachers. I am an artistic and was eventually accepted to the dents greet the opportunity to take part French Second Language Specialist Master of Public Administration Program in a French language school treasure teacher, a DELF/DALF formatrice as well at Queen’s University. On the first day hunt for objects that stimulate the five as AIM educator for the Greater Essex of class, I quickly realized how valuable senses? How about the fun of reading County District School Board (GECDSB) my FSL skills were: among the 30 stu- the daily announcements in French two in Windsor, Ontario. I have been teach- dents accepted into the program – I was to three times a week to the whole ing for 6 years at the primary level (one the only one without a business degree school or creating a multicultural mar- of which was with the Ministère de BUT WITH a French degree. The mes- ketplace where students and community l’Éducation National de France where I sage was clear: French language skills members participate in oral compre- worked in Bordeaux, Aquitaine). I have are valuable. hension? These are some of the ways been creating alternative ways of learn- in which I have engaged once reluctant ing a second language by the use of art, The opportunities afforded to me learners of French as a second language. culture and more. I have collaborated in because of my Second Language skills Creating a safe space where everyone is the creation of well received workshops ultimately led me to a career in teach- working at their own pace doing con- which have helped many educators yield ing. I wanted to share my passion for crete activities has helped circumvent positive and encouraging results in their and experience with language. I wanted some of the barriers that FSL students second language classroom. I am also an children to understand the benefits of might otherwise face in a core French award winning journalist. My portfolio second language acquisition. I have class. Providing opportunities for stu- ranges from commissioned work in arts, been a Core French Teacher with the dents to bring their home culture into lifestyle and fashion journalism. Most Hamilton Wentworth District School the classroom, reinforcing curriculum recently educational pedagogy. I was Board for approximately six years and in from other subjects with French born in Canada, lived in Bordeaux each day I greet my students with the language activities, celebrating every- France and I am a devout world traveler same excitement and enthusiasm that one’s creativity have all led to increased with a taste for the savoir faire of I have always had for languages. I use engagement and comprehension among cosmopolitan living. I am passionate modelling, shared and guided activi- my students. Learning a second lan- about language, music and culture. ties to show my students that they CAN guage through hands-on activity has succeed. I facilitate engagingactivities yielded encouraging results for my stu- where students talk about themselves dents and has been especially stimulat- and others as they work through authen- ing for my FSL students. These lessons tic tasks. It is so motivating to see my allow them to learn in a healthy, happy students take risks and participate fully and whole environment that embraces in the FSL classroom. the French-speaking world as well as strengthens cross-curricular learning. While my past experience has guided my My goal is help students pursue their passion for French, it is professional interests in French and work to enhance development that has developed my what they are already learning in their skills as a Language teacher. I have other classes and embrace what they been a member of the OMLTA since my have learned at home. By giving our FSL second year of teaching. The member’s students the opportunity to be creative, only documents, the articles in Commu- Liaison Activities Remembering Lise Moore The OMLTA Board of Directors actively par- Lise Andrée Moore (née La France) was Let us not forget her love for .La Soirée ticipates with dozens of regional associa- born and educated in Quebec. While Française, a special OMLTA event to tions and stakeholders across the province working in Montreal she met her future her, as she sang familiar songs from her throughout the year. Here are just a few husband Bill. They eventually married youth or her unexpected repartees, and 8 of them! Your OMLTA team remains hard at and had three children, Jeff, Johanne the twinkle in her eye as she delivered work on your behalf. and Lisa; subsequently, they had five them! wonderful grandchildren of whom they Alliance française were so very proud. Lise was ever Lise was not a teacher, but her collabo- Association canadienne des a loving wife and mother. She also ration with OMLTA exceeded 30 years, professeurs d’immersion remained true to her québecois heritage 15 of which were spent as Administra- Canadian Association of Second by rooting faithfully for Les Canadiens. tive Assistant. Her recognition as Honor- Language Teachers However, she was, indulgent of friends ary Member attested to the significant Canadian Parents of French who did not know such things as what role she played in helping promote “icing the puck” was, while she knew teacher in-service in languages and as Catholic Principals’ Council of Ontario all hockey terms in both official lan- ambassador. Nous te remercions, chère Commissaire aux langues officielles guages. In addition, she watched many amie. Ce n’est qu’un au revoir. Conference of Independent Schools sports and knew scores and results for Consulate of Federal Republic of most. What many did not know was that Dianne Pennock Germany in Toronto Lise avidly listened to, read about, and President, OMLTA-AOPLV, 1985-86 watched televised news programs Council of Ontario Directors of and political discussions/debates. Education Discussions with her were always Eastern Ont. Staff Development Network intriguing and informative! Spring Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario In 1981, Helen Mitchell with great conference wisdom hired Lise to The Halton Board Embassies of France, Germany, Italy, of Education as her secretary for French Portugal, Spain as a Second Language (FSL), classical Another Successful Spring Faculties of Education and modern languages, and English, Conference for OMLTA! Goethe-Institut Toronto Needless to say, Lise was most compe- tent in her work and her memory for The International Plaza Hotel in Toronto Golden Horseshoe Language Teachers detail without equal. Twenty–five years was bursting with over 550 language Heritage Canada after her first position in Montreal, Lise’s teachers from March 27 to 29, for our International Language Educators former employer upon his retirement annual Spring Conference. This year`s Assocation wrote an article in Le Devoir where he theme, “Languages 2.0/Langues 2.0”, thanked Lise LaFrance for her fine work inspired workshop presenters to explore Istituto Italiano di Cultura and dedication. High praise! topics like interactive games for Smart- Literacy and Numeracy Secretariat Boards, online digital stories and using (Ministry of Education) In 1984, behind the scenes, Lise helped iPads in language classrooms. Other Ministry of Education in the preparation for the Centennial popular workshop topics were increas- Year of the Ontario Modern Language ing engagement and oral participation Modern Languages Council Teachers’ Association (OMLTA). In the among students, and of course teach- Ontario Association of Teachers of German years that followed, she typed, helped ers were eager to learn more about the Ontario Association of Teachers of Italian in the set-up of programs and stuffed CEFR in the context of new curricula. envelopes. A few years later, Lise ac- Over 75 different workshops were devel- Ontario College of Teachers cepted to work for the OMLTA; the oped and presented, most by classroom Ontario English Catholic Teachers position was a year-long commitment teachers who are regularly working with Association as Administrative Assistant (AA) where students in the classroom. Ontario Principals Council she became the voice behind the as- sociation. In March or April, she would Our keynote speaker, Jacques Cool, Ontario Public School Boards Assocation materialize at the Spring Conference. opened up the Friday sessions by Ontario Secondary School One would never dare to take a five- addressing teachers on the topic of Teachers Federation minute walk down the hall as it became using social media and other web tools Ontario Teachers Federation an obstacle course whereby Lise was to meet students where they are. His greeted and hugged over the entire dis- energetic presentation set the tone for Radio-Canada tance. The Executive members, teach- two days of learning and collaborating TFO ers, publishers and authors appreciated with others from across the province. TVO her efforts to solve their problems. Our delegates represented dozens of Western Ontario French as a Second Language Association school boards across the province and Afterwards, I obsessed about all of the But Gail was just one of many OMLTA elsewhere. As well as attending work- things I should have said. So now, in the presenters that had a profound impact shops, our Exhibitor area featured stress-free comfort of my home, I am on me professionally. Wendy Maxwell, a wide selection of publishers and collecting my thoughts and am compos- the creator of AIM (Aim Language Learn- other companies providing resources, ing what I hope will be a proper expres- ing) was another. I adopted her program support and opportunities to language sion of my thoughts and appreciation of in 2001 shortly after seeing her present students and teachers in Ontario. receiving the award. at an OMLTA conference, and I have 9 been using it ever since. Matt Maxwell The OMLTA Spring Conference is an “Thank you to the teachers who nomi- and Jacquot are two artists I met at annual event anticipated by language nated me: May Rauda, Pauline Fice- conferences in the 1980’s, and whose teachers as an excellent professional Galea, Diane Ankenman and Renée music I continue to use in class today. development opportunity. Next year’s Villeneuve. Your letters of support mean The list of OMLTA presenters who have conference will be even bigger more to me than you will ever know. had an influence on me is substantial. and more exciting, because it is A very special thank you to May, for in- And I continue to be inspired by present- being developed in conjunction with troducing me today in such an eloquent ers every year. The high quality of the the Canadian Association of Second manner. Thank you to my husband, workshops never ceases to amaze me. Language Teachers (CASLT) and the Steve, and daughters Alana and Lauren In addition, the publishing tables International Federation of Language for providing constant encouragement have always provided me with great Teacher Associations (FIPLV). This for the things I do, and for putting up resources that I would have never found international event, “World Congress with the numerous hours I spend in front if it were not for the conference. But of Modern Languages”, will be held of the computer creating the French more significantly, the connections with from March 26 to 28, 2015, in Niagara resources that I love to share. other teachers is what really makes the Falls. Workshop proposals are now Thank you to Crescent School and to conference a not-to-be-missed event. being accepted. For more informa- all of my students for being simply To be surrounded with hundreds of tion, go to http://www.caslt.org/con- awesome and for inspiring me every like-minded educators with a passion for ference15/conference2015_en.php. day with their enthusiasm for learning teaching languages can only be We hope to see you there! French. experienced first-hand and in person. By Jennifer Rochon Thank you to the OMLTA nominations The OMLTA conference is also dear to Toronto DSB committee for forwarding my name to me because presenting at it several 2014 Conference Chair the Board of Directors, and finally, thank times helped me overcome my paralytic you to the Board for choosing me. It is fear of public speaking. I eventually an honour that I will treasure for many became an AIM facilitator and a Technol- years to come. ogy Integration Teacher Trainer and I can Reflections from an now start a presentation without feeling Coincidentally, I attended my very first like I am about to faint (on most days). Award Recipient OMLTA conference in 1984, exactly 30 I’m sure that there are many presenters On Saturday, March 30, 2014, I years ago today. Those were prosperous who can relate to this, who may have received the Helen B. St. John Award days for publishing companies and I overcome their fears of presenting and from the OMLTA (Ontario Modern remember the epic parties at the have become leaders in their schools, Language Teachers’ Association) in Captain John’s Restaurant on the boat school boards and communities, thanks “Recognition of Outstanding Class- next to the Harbour Castle Hotel. to the opportunities provided at the room Teaching and Leadership in conference. the Profession”. I am humbled and I remember also being extremely inspired by all of the presenters at the honoured to be named the recipient Finally, I would like to extend un gros conference, in particular, by Gail Phil- of this prestigious award. merci to the OMLTA conference commit- lips. I am so glad to see her in the audi- tee and board members for the count- Minutes before the awards ceremony, ence today. Her sessions were always less hours they have spent volunteering I was greeted by Karla Torrente-Lep- jam-packed to overflowing, and her to make this event as successful as it is. age (past president of the OMLTA) who famous handouts were like gold. These Because of their dedication and effort, asked me if I wanted to speak. were the days before the internet, teachers like me who attend the confer- and there was no easy way to get the ence can continue to bring new ideas I hate public speaking but I felt that handouts: you had to be at the session into our classrooms, and in turn, inspire it would be ungracious to decline the to get one. When she passed them out our students to become life-long invitation, so after Karla left me, I sat at the end there was often a stampede, learners and advocates of second there, panic-stricken, trying to think not unlike a chaotic Black Friday sales language education. of something intelligent to say. My day at Walmart. What is amazing is that husband whispered encouragement to the content of her handouts are still With endless gratitude and appreciation, me as I felt my nerves starting to fray. relevant today: creative, engaging, and Sylvia Duckworth My name was called and up I went. fun for students, using communicative Crescent School, Toronto I managed to blurt out a few garbled vocabulary over and beyond the regi- sentences, accepted my award and mented government guidelines. sat down. Sincere thanks to all of our prize donors!

Aim Language Learning EF Tours Pearson Canada Cahiers d’activités NG EMC Paradigm Perspectives Camp Mère Clarac Étienne Poetry in Voice 10 CEEF (Canadian Educational Exchange ISE Ontario Poster Pals Foundation) Jouets Nancy Rigodon Chenelière Publishing La Boutique RK Publishing CLÉ International Le chef à l’école Scholastic Canada CPF Ontario Maped Tralco Lingo Éditions CEC Nelson Publishing Watermelon Works Éditions de l’envolée Oxford University Press interpreted the clapping as a new Membership French gesture that they needed to learn. We laughed about this after- Benefits wards. The bug-catching experience was very positive and I am thankful that Being a member of the OMLTA affords I took the risk to do something new this 11 you much more than discounted rates school year with my core French classes. to our Spring Conference. This year to The First We expect our students to take risks in date, and in the coming months, OMLTA their learning and I think that we, as members: teachers need to remember the courage Five Years that it takes to try something new. • have been able show their leadership by applying for writin teams for projects to inform Prends Soin de ton Coin Some useful French-friendly apps to use teachers about the new elementary instead of field guides when taking your FSL curriculum, in addition to The first few weeks and months of classes outdoors: attending these workshops in five the school year are always very busy cities across the province and energetic, yet it has been hard to iForest – Arbres et arbustes by Andreas • have applied for a bursary to study get motivated to take my Core French Garzotto GmbH in France in July 2014, for classes outdoors. Sometimes my need interested French teachers, courtesy for an activity to be “perfect” gets in iBird Canada Guide to Birds by of the Cultural Services Office of the the way of just doing it. Today was the Mitch Waite Group (with French French Embassy in Ottawa day where I decided to take the plunge nomenclature) and once again begin the routine of tak- • have taken part in two sessions of ing my classes outdoors to practice their MyNature Animal Tracks the brand new Additional Qualification French skills and learn new vocabulary. course in Spanish, to be offered again As soon as the outdoor temperature by Tamara Anderson in the Fall or Winter online at reached 15 – 16 degrees (the ambient Upper Grand DSB Nipissing University, temperature for butterflies to be able • have put forward their request to to fly), I took my Grade 4 core French participat for Projet à Québec, the classes outside. Before beginning the extraordinary summer immersion outdoor adventure, we spent 15 minutes Moving Towards program for FSL teachers across indoors learning the French names of all panels the different types of bugs that could be Action-Oriented Secondary found in the schoolyard. The students Classrooms in the WRDSB • profit from the experience of their arranged themselves in small groups of colleagues at conference workshops in 2-3 and were soon equipped with a bug Toronto and Sudbury, and from jar, a laminated BINGO sheet entitled Secondary FSL teachers in the Waterloo articles in Communication “Les Bibites” and a dry-erase marker. Region District School Board are embark- Once outside, the students found a ing on a journey of professional learning • receive access to dozens of helpful variety of bugs. Many “Bravo” cards that will forever change FSL teaching documents via our Members Only were awarded to students that used and learning in their classrooms. Hav- section on our website French names and colours to describe ing participated in CEFR training and • share ideas, tips, resources, and best their new friends. We found grasshop- workshops that support the anticipated practices via our Facebook page, pers, cabbage white butterflies, slugs, implementation of the Revised FSL Twitter account, and OMLTA earthworms, millipedes, potato bugs Curriculum, teachers are now gathering website forums and impressive crane flies that looked in an effort to truly understand the prin- like giant mosquitoes. The students ciples of the Action-Oriented Approach • receive discounted rates for had to be reminded not to catch sting- and the CERF, as well as the spirit and membership in and products from the ing insects since their enthusiasm for philosophy of the revised curriculum. Canadian Association of Second catch and release seemed to overpower Language Teachers (CASLT) their knowledge of hazards. One wasp As our collective understanding of this • and much more! seemed particularly interested in a philosophy increases, we are moving student that was somewhat fearful of from the Communication Approach – Stay a part of the OMLTA and take them. I instructed the student to clap where students have learned by commu- advantage of the benefits of being their hands together, effectively mak- nicating through learning activities that involved! ing a loud noise that deterred the wasp have traditionally been more focused from investigating them. Upon doing on oral production, rather than interac- by Jimmy Steele this, I received a loud applause from my tion – to the Action-Oriented Approach whole class because the students – where communication is viewed as a social activity designed to accomplish Learning Goal Authentic situation Action-Oriented Task specific tasks.1 The focus has shifted I am learning to ex- Expressing and defending Your parents have just come home to increasing proficiency in spontane- plain what happened in yourself when something from a weekend away. You were ous oral interactions in authentic and reaction to a particular has gone wrong. left with the responsibility of personally relevant contexts. situation. your siblings and the house. Your parents come home early and they 12 To facilitate the shift to the Action-Ori- are not happy with what they find. You must explain what happened ented Approach, several writing teams and why. have been formed in the Waterloo I am learning to describe Trying to find a missing You are in the airport and a family Region DSB to develop tasks and activi- family members, their family member in a busy member has gone missing. You ties that reflect the philosophy of the personality and physical place. seek the help of authorities. They Action-Oriented Approach, the CEFR and appearance. ask you questions to obtain a the Revised FSL Curriculum for each of description and the four strands. The group working on I am learning to ask and the Speaking strand has kindly agreed to answer questions. share their work here. The tasks below are still in draft form, and will continue I am learning to order a Ordering a meal at a You are in a restaurant. You place meal. restaurant and there is an order. When you meal arrives, to be revised as they are used in class- an issue with the meal. you notice that there is something rooms throughout the board. Please I am learning to discuss wrong with the meal/service. You feel free to use them as is, or modify and resolve a problem. ask the waiter questions to find them to suit the needs of your students. solutions to the problem. These tasks were developed with the Grade 9 Core French classroom in mind. I am learning to express Making and justifying You are on a boat cruise with and justify my opinion. decisions. friends and the boat starts to sink! The tasks were developed by Megan You are told by the captain that I am learning to talk you must evacuate to the life- Anderson, Monica Kauck, Chris Lauer, about what I will do. boats, but can only bring two of Hilary Millar, and Carrie Wilson – all your personal belongings with you. secondary FSL teachers in the Waterloo You and your partner try to decide Region District School Board. what you will take with you.

1. Paraphrased from A Guide to Reflective Practice for Core French Teachers, Module 3: The Action-Oriented Michael Green, Waterloo Region DSB Approach, Curriculum Services Canada. www.curriculum.org/fsl

I conducted a study of 40 foreign lan- development of cultural competencies Take it guage learners nationwide (ages 16-55) and with a change in attitude toward who had participated in a language the target culture. Those who had lived And Make study program in another province or in a home-stay or experienced authentic country. Respondents reported on a va- contact with native speakers reported It Yours riety of language exchange experiences more linguistic gains and positive atti- in North America, Europe, Asia or Cen- tude change than those who had stayed tral America, and some had done more with their travel group in a residence than one. 87% of respondents to this or hotel. Likewise, respondents who Are language exchange ex- digital survey believed they had made participated in arts events during their periences really worth it? significant gains, primarily in the area travel experience (museums, theatre, of oral language, while 82% declared historic visits, cinema, etc.) developed Language exchange and study abroad they were significantly more motivated a greater appreciation for the new programs are often considered to be to continue studying the language after culture. an integral part of foreign language their cultural immersion. The study study. It’s commonly believed that, showed a positive correlation between Research by other sociolinguists confirms while grammar can be learned in the the length of time spent in an exchange these results. Comparisons of stay-at- classroom, students only become fluent program and learner motivation – the home and study-abroad learners show in the target language through immer- longer the program, the more students that the sojourners adopt the linguistic sion in the culture. What impact do were inspired to continue language markers typical of native speakers (for exchange programs really have on the study. Many older respondents indicated example, using on instead of nous in development of linguistic competencies that the experience had affected their French), and these markers last over and student motivation? Do students lives years later (“I have always had a time. Likewise, language exchange develop cultural competencies along love of music, dance, film and foods students use longer sentences and more with language abilities during a study from many cultures since that year in lexical fillers(c’est à dire que) than abroad experience? Are these programs Switzerland”). The amount of contact classroom learners. Studies indicate worthwhile for language teachers as respondents had with locals correlated that learners make significant gains in well? with linguistic gains as well as with the oral expression during short programs as well (though not through travel tour- Outdoor education experiences ism), so even a brief séjour linguistique for school groups: Concours is worthwhile for busy language teach- ers. Finally, an authentic language • Les classes natures (1-week group d’art and cultural experience can expand a programs in Québec province) student’s sense of identity. Even a few http://www.camps-odyssee.com 13 weeks in a new culture offer an oppor- /classes-nature.html oratoire tunity for growth and transformation. As students learn to adapt to a culture Student exchange & study abroad other than their own, they begin to programs develop intercultural competencies, Le Concours et Festival viewing their culture of origin, as well as • Explore (5-week interprovincial d’art oratoire 2014 the target culture, in a new light. bursary program for FSL and ESL On Saturday, May 10th, students, learners, students 17+) parents and teachers from all over by Adriana Wenk http://www.myexplore.ca Ontario came together at York Univer- sity’s Glendon Campus in Toronto for Le Adriana recent graduate in French Stud- • SEVEC - Society for Educational Visits Concours et Festival d’art oratoire, an ies (University of Toronto/Scarborough) & Exchanges (school group exchanges annual French public-speaking festi- and in primary-junior education (OISE), through Canadian Heritage) val and competition for students from and begins a Masters of Education in http://www.sevec.ca/programs Grades 4 to 12 studying French as a language, culture & teaching (York /youth-exchanges-canada Second Language. This event is orga- University) in 2014. She has partici- nized by Canadian Parents for French pated in several language exchange and • OSEF France-Canada (reciprocal 1-3 in partnership with the OMLTA. Our study abroad programs in Québec and month exchange program for ages organization is responsible for recruit- in France. She is a perfect example 13-17) ing judges, moderators and questioners. of how student members of can share http://www.osef.ca/ The Concours Coordinators this year their knowledge with our members were OMLTA Directors Deilyn Campa- while benefitting from being an OMLTA • YMCA Youth Exchanges Canada notti and Olga Rubino. A sincere thank herself. Merci ! program (5-day program for groups, you goes to OMLTA Vice-President Jenn ages 12-17) Rochon for her training leadership and http://www.ymcagta.org/en/youth to OMLTA President Jayne Evans for her -learning-training/exchange- Selected French-language support and involvement throughout the programs.html study experiences day. Once again, the event provided a fantastic opportunity for students to • Study Abroad (Tours, France), through celebrate the French language. Students or teachers interested in Woodsworth College, French-language travel/study pro- University of Toronto The event began in 1985 as a Concours grams might consider these creative https://www.summerabroad. for high school students. That first alternatives: utoronto.ca/index.php/programs year saw a total of 35 students from 14 /France Francophone summer camps different school boards participate. In the last 29 years, the event has grown for children: For more listings, see: to include participants from public and

separate school boards as well as from • Traditional or specialty day and http://exchanges.gc.ca independent schools across the prov- overnight camps in Québec province http://studyabroad.com Les camps Odyssée: ince. Grades 4 to 8 were added to the event and in 1993 Le Festival d’art ora- http://www.camps-odyssee.com Work programs toire was established as part of the day. It is a celebration of language rather For more listings, see Canadian • Odyssey language assistant program than a competition. Today, participants Parents for French through Canadian Heritage are divided into four categories based http://cpf.ca/en/actvities/youth- (9-month, salaried) on hours of FSL instruction. These cat- activities/cpf-summer-camps http://www.myodyssey.ca egories are Core, Extended, Immersion and FSL Plus. At the secondary level, Camp counsellor training • France-Canada Youth Exchange first, second and third place winners in program for teens: program (Study, working holiday or each category win monetary prizes of paid internship for students & young $500, $250 and $125. These senior level • L’école de formation des moniteurs et professionals, ages 18-35) winners will also continue on to the na- monitrices du Québec http://www.ambafrance-ca.org tional level of Concours, held in Ottawa. (1 month, ages 16-17) /France-Canada-youth-exchange http://www.camps-odyssee.com First place winners at the National level are awarded $20,000 scholarships to the University of Ottawa. This year saw 289 participants from 24 school boards and 6 independent schools. The winners, along with their speech topics and school boards, are posted on the CPF website, at www.cpfont.on.ca. 14

Each year, the OMLTA recruits officials for this important event. Approxi- mately 60 teachers took part this year as judges, moderators or questioners, making it possible for students to enjoy this incredible opportunity. Students from the Faculty of Education at York University also volunteered their time to assist. We would like to extend our sincerest thank you to everyone who at- tended. We will be seeking volunteers again in January 2015. Join us! by Olga Rubino 2. What is CPF Ontario’s role in through the crafting of a French speech 5 Questions conjunction with the national orga- with a pedagogical approach and the nization? OMLTA recruits and trains up to 70 judges for the provincial grand finale. with/avec... Canadian Parents for French is a nation- Glendon College, our third Concours al network of volunteers that recognize partner, hosts the event annually in 15 French as an integral part of Canada and Toronto,while numerous stakeholders we all take an active role in promoting contribute amazing scholarships and opportunities for children to learn and prizes.This event is always such a grand use French. The National board of direc- success with all the players executing tors and the office staff in Ottawa bring their roles without a hitch, always keep- our members together to identify and ing the outward focus on the kids and prioritize the key issues common to par- their amazing achievements. ents and students in FSL programs across the country. The national office collabo- Collaborating with the OMLTA and other rates with other national organizations FSL stakeholders such as the Modern and stakeholders in FSL education such Languages Council, can also help as the Canadian Association of Second leverage important messages that may Language Teachers (CASLT). influence the decision makers to accom- modate necessary changes in FSL educa- Betty Gormley Where CPF National sets the tone with tion. CPF as an organization has learned the organization’s position statements, how to leverage the voice of parentswho Betty Gormley is our second profile in the Ontario Branch takes the lead in want the best experience and outcomes Communication’s new feature, “5 ques- advocating for and influencing FSL policy for their kids who are learning French. tions with/avec…”. Leaders in second decisions and how school boards prac- Collaborating with other stakeholders is language education will be introduced in tice them. Our elected President, Mary the same process. each future issue of Communication. Cruden, is our number one advocate. We sit on the Ministry of Education’s FSL The best part of my job is bringing Betty is the Executive Director of Cana- Provincial Working Group and over the people together. Members of my board dian Parents for French (Ontario), one past several years have met three Min- recently had an opportunity to meet of our province’s and country’s strongest isters of Education and been invited to with Jayne Evans, the OMLTA President advocacy groups for FSL education and represent the voice of engaged parents and Jennifer Rochon, your 1st Vice- promoting bilingualism. An active partici- at the Ministry consultations that lead to President to talk about what our respec- pant in many fields of second language the development of the new Framework tive organizations have identified as education, Betty is indeed a very busy for FSL in Ontario schools and the FSL important new directions and issues to person! We are grateful for her participa- curriculum. We actively seek collabora- overcome. We found that what parents tion in this interview, and are pleased to tion with all provincial FSL stakeholders want and need for their children to suc- introduce Betty to our members! such as the OMLTA. ceed in FSL is sometimes very similar to what teachers identify as critical for im- CPF Ontario also supports our 32 local proving their in-class practice, whether 1. Tell us how you began working with chapters, parents on the ground who it be free access to more authentic CPF Ontario. play the most vital role of promoting French resources or more opportuni- FSL education in their communities and ties for professional developmentfor I worked as an executive director for many implement initiatives to support and teachers to refresh or boost their own years for a professional engineering as- engage all parents alongside their child’s French language proficiency to the next sociation and then part –time for an arts FSL journey. level. When stakeholders meet on a few association when my children were young. important issues and decide to work in I had been volunteering in my children’s 3. How does CPF collaborate with concert to get results that is collabora- school running a French reading program, the OMLTA and other stakeholders? tion at its best! when a friend told me that CPF was looking for an executive director. That was seven I’ll start with a concrete example of how 4. What role does CPF play in years ago, and everyday I feel fortunate to organizations collaborate by contribut- working with classroom teachers be able to put my professional experience ing their respective areas of expertise to and other groups that affect our to work in a domain that I am so passionate a common initiative. CPF collaborates students’ day-to-day lives? about. with the OMLTA on the Concours d’art oratoire, the beloved French public Engaged parents who play an active speaking competition. In this case,CPF role in encouraging their children and encourages participation in all 60 school are mindful of creating a supportive boards, promotes and coordinates the environment for them to flourish are by provincial Concours et Festival d’art extension a great support to teachers. oratoire. Teachers lead the students The CPF local chapter volunteers or- French mother and an English father who sent me to French school as a child ganize “French Survival Nights” within even though the language spoken at home was English. Both of my extended the school community to support young families enjoyed music and a good family gathering, the only difference being parents who have concerns about their their respective languages. In those days, there seemed to be a distinct divide. child succeeding in a French Immersion Today, most of the cousins are bilingual and certainly their children are! program when they themselves don’t 16 speak the language.These events may feature a guest speaker with a specific expertise ormay focus on the availability of on-line resources and great French APPS to keep the kids engaged in French when at home.

Teachers often attend these local events alongside the parents or participate in our CPF webinars on similar topics. Any- one can downloadable the CPF Home- work Help tips sheetsat http://on.cpf. ca/resources/for-parents/homework- help-tip-sheets-2-2/ from our website and teachers can order the Keys to French, an economical tool to support French writing skills for your class.

For the older kids, CPF Ontario has been offering the Pathways to Bilingual Success Conferences/Chemins de la reussitebilingue with funding support initially from the Department of Cana- dian Heritage and now from the Ministry of Education. Grade 7-8 students partici- pate in a full day off-site conference with interactive workshops and keynotes focused on the benefits of a second lan- guage education, engagement in French community cultural events and bilingual work programs all within the context of and all three of these events will un- staying in French until grade 12...and Language doubtedly continue to grow and thrive beyond. We recently distributed a FSL in the coming years! retention to grade 12 resource package to all schools in the province with grade Contests To get involved, you’ll find the contact 7-8 Core French, Extended French or information for each committee at the French immersion classrooms. Teachers end of the article. Machen Sie mit! can download these resources from our Provincial Language ¡Participen! website at http://on.cpf.ca/resources/ for-educators/chemins-de-la-reussite- Contest Reports bilingue/ Ontario’s Best and Brightest Second Ontario High School Language Students Shine German Contest Right now we are actively promoting ex- auf Deutsch and en español! isting French summer camps. In commu- The 2014 Ontario High School German nities where there are none, resourceful This past spring two provincial language Contest was held on Saturday, April 12 parents are hiring enthusiastic French contests took place that welcomed at Harbord Collegiate Institute. Over teachers to take on the role of camp nearly 200 excited students to Toronto. 30 students from eight schools in four director for a couple of weeks. The op- All of these events were supported by school boards across Ontario, from portunities for collaboration are endless. the OMLTA through the donation of cash North Bay to Hamilton, took part in this prizes and plaques for the winners. year’s amazing event. These contests are run by dedicated 5. Tell us about your personal con- teams of volunteer teachers and com- The top finisher won an all-expenses nection with the French language! munity members. The faces behind each paid trip to Germany and enrolment of these events are encouraged by the in a three-week “PAD” language and I grew up in Montreal and I have always interest and enthusiasm of students, culture course this summer, all of which counted myself fortunate to have a community organizations and teachers, was provided by the Consulate of the Federal Republic of Germany (Toronto). Gifts and donations from the OMLTA, Munich Reinsurance Canada, the Goethe-Institut Toronto, Mercedes-Benz Canada and many other kind organizations helped bring the total of gifts and prizes awarded this year to nearly $5,000, including over $2,500 in cash. The committee extends its thanks to all of its wonderful supporters!

It was an honour to welcome the Deputy Consul General for the Federal Republic of Germany, Aljona Schnitzer, to the event. 17 Other special guests included OMLTA President, Jayne Evans.

BEGINNER SENIOR 1. Stephen Chankov – University of Toronto Schools 1. Hanning Cai – The Woodlands School (Peel DSB) 2. Hamza Ibad – The Woodlands School (Peel DSB) 2. Soojie Hong – The Woodlands School (Peel DSB) 3. Keeana Mihalin – Harbord CI (Toronto DSB) 3. Jonathan Bernick – University of Toronto Schools 4. Elizabeth Shaw – University of Toronto Schools 4. Catherine Vlasov – University of Toronto Schools 5. Jens van den Berg – Waterdown District HS 5. Felix Frontini – Harbord CI (Toronto DSB) (Hamilton-Wentworth DSB)

Students participate in listening, reading, writing and grammar components, in addition to an oral interview. The contest is geared towards students in their third year of study, but many students have been successful – and even won! – the contest after just two years of instruction. Beginner students again competed this year, and the future of German in Ontario is indeed bright!

The committee looks forward to the 44th edition of the Ontario High School German Contest, to be held in April 2015 in Toronto! Do not hesitate to take part next year: e-mail the Committee at [email protected] with any questions and check out the Ontario Association of Teachers of German Web site at http://www.oatg.org for full details. Machen Sie mit! Ontario Secondary Schools Spanish Contest Under this year’s motto of El español es un idioma para explorar, 125 students from over schools in six school boards across the province assembled at Glendon College on Thursday, May 6 for a full-day of exciting activities. This was the sixth edition of this dynamic event. 18 Over $2,000 in cash and prizes was awarded to 15 sensational students, the top in each of the five different categories: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Spanish Plus, and Native Speaker. In addition, 20 students received Honourable Mentions for their outstanding achievements. Major sponsors for the event included Glendon College, York University, the OMLTA, and Guerrero Law, among others.

After a full day of testing in listening, reading and grammar quizzes, plus an oral interview, the participants enjoyed live mariachi music, took part in interactive games, and much more. Special guests for the final prize giving ceremony included VIPs from the Consulate of Argentina in Toronto.

Felicidades to the contest’s winners:

BEGINNER INTERMEDIATE

1st Oana Mirel Northern S.S. 1st Bora Dirilgen Upper Canada College 2nd Sam Gernburd Upper Canada College 2nd Shreya Anand North Toronto C.I. 3rd Jonathan Ayala St. Michael’s College School 3rd HyunGu Kang University of Toronto Schools HM Sara Fallah North Toronto C.I. HM Shaig Abduragimov Upper Canada College HM Denise Lazar Don Mills C.I. HM Iulia Iancu York Mills C.I. HM Sonia Scarlat Parkdale C.I. HM Natalia Bekirsky Clarkson S.S. HM Daniel Tudor University of Toronto Schools HM Antonio Giorgio Scarfo St. Michael’s College School HM Jessie Zhang Dr. Norman Bethune C.I. HM Jackielyn Jabson R.H. King Academy HM Alana Ceci St. Clement’s School HM Anisha Jahagirdar Martingrove C.I.

ADVANCED SPANISH PLUS

1st Kanwar Sahdra University of Toronto Schools 1st Cameron Praysner Langstaff S.S. 2nd Ana Damnajanovic Northern C.I. 2nd George Radner University of Toronto Schools 3rd Maddlen O’Connor Toronto French School 3rd Su Li Sha Dr. Norman Bethune C.I. HM Ujwal Boppana University of Toronto Schools HM Fair Lyons Parkdale C.I. HM Allison Drake Clarkson S.S. HM Garima Karia Toronto French School NATIVE SPEAKER

1st Daniela Sosa-Miranda York Mills C.I. 2nd Jie Yi Jhony Juan Ding Dr. Norman Bethune C.I. 19 3rd Amanda Fernández Fuentes Martingrove C.I. HM Fernando Sánchez-Avila St. Michael’s College School HM Cynthia Brenes Clarkson S.S. HM Alan San Martín J. Clarke Richardson C.I. HM Andrea Almeida Our Lady of Mount Carmel S.S.

This year, many more Toronto area schools participated in the event, and as evidenced by the list of winners, they also dominated the competition. Next year, the committee looks forward to and encourages greater participation from across Ontario.

Save the date: the 7th edition of the Ontario Secondary Schools Spanish Contest will take place at Glendon Col- lege on Thursday, May 7, 2015.

Congratulations to all involved! Do not hesitate to take part next year: e-mail the Committee at [email protected] with any questions and check out the OSSSC Web site at http://www.ontariospanishcontest.com for full details. ¡Vengan y participen en gran número en 2015!

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Ontario H.S. German Contest [email protected] http://www.oatg.org Ontario S.S. Spanish Contest [email protected] http://www.ontariospanishcontest.com

OATI Italian Contest 2014

On May 2nd, various school boards from the GTA along with Indepedent schools partic- ipated in the annual Italian high school contest which took place at the University of Toronto, Mississauga Campus. The Chair, Professor Emmanuel Nikiema brought greet- ings on behalf of the Department of Language Studies along with Jackie Goodman ( Office of the Dean) and Madison Peters (Recruitment & Admissions).

Special thanks goes to all the Italian teachers, volunteers, teacher candidates from OISE, University of Toronto and York University to the exceutive committee: Emanuela Polin-DeLuca, Dr. Biagio Aulino, Prof. Salvatore Bancheri, Prof. Gabriella Colussi-Arthur, Maria Ferlisi, Prof. Michael Lettieri, Maria Pallotta and Dr. Mirella Pasquarelli-Clivio and special thanks to Dr. Teresa Lobalsamo and Joanna Szewczyk for all their help in ensuring that the contest ran smoothly.

Congratulations to all students who participated in the contest! Strong linguistic teams represented their school. The next contest will be taking place at York Univer- sity, May 2015 and we look forward to seeing you all at the contest!

Kudos to the students who won the top prizes in each category! There were 117 students from 10 schools, representing five boards and various independent schools. Full results are available on the TISSO/OATI website at http://tisso.apps01.yorku.ca/.

2016

French is alive in Niagara! The Brock-Niagara French Contest/le Concours Brock-Niagara is 36 years old!

Beginning in 1978, this long-standing contest provides an opportunity for grade 11 and 12 students of the Niagara region to demonstrate their French language skills through a variety of activities. This activity is generously sponsored by Brock University’s Department of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures Brock University as well as the District School Board of Niagara and the Niagara Catholic District School Board.

This year’s contest took place on Wednesday, May 7th, 2014 at Brock University. Students registered in one of three language categories; Core French, Français intensif, which includes students who study in the Extended French or Immersion programs and Fran- cophone for student with French as a first language experience. The participants rotated through 4 different challenging language activities which have been developed to test language proficiency. French language student monitors from Brock University accompanied the contestants throughout the morning and led guided tours of the Brock campus. This interaction with Brock students offered the younger students insight to campus life. The afternoon entertainment was provided by a Prologue to the Performing Arts artist, Mike Ford, who engaged the audience with a variety of music styles and historical messages. This performance was followed by the prize ceremony held at the picturesque Pond Inlet, on Brock’s campus. Major category winners received monetary prizes made possible through the generosity of local businesses and community organizations, many of which represent the Francophone community in Niagara. The Brock-Niagara French contest organizers thank the OMLTA/AOPLV for providing a generous monetary gift as well as commemorative plaques for the top Grade 12 winners in each category! Les gagnants : Igrat Skortiov – Eden H.S., Imani Williams – Eden H.S., Isabelle Serafuli - Denis Morris C.H.S. Canadian Parents for French Ontario hosted several French for the Future events across the country on April 25. Grade 11 students of all backgrounds were exposed to cultural events, fantastic workshops, and great entertainment, all with the purpose of helping our secondary school students recognize the boundless potential that awaits them as bilingual and functionally bilingual young people. A few pictures from the Toronto forum, held at Glendon College, follow. 21

Estimad@s colegas, he Para hablar en el pasado y utilizar acciones reflexivas. Ej. International aquí dos recursos para La sombrilla/el paraguas se llama la clase de español que el azulado porque es de color azul. Languages Sirve para taparse de la lluvia. Un espero les sean útiles… día de lluvia la sombrilla azul cam- OMLTA is Proud to inaba por la calle cuando conoció 1. Enseñar con cortometrajes. a una chica. La chica llevaba una Support the 2014 European Los cortometrajes se pueden utilizar sombrilla rosada. Ellos se gustaron Day of Languages para expandir el vocabulario, ensenar mucho y estaban contentos de poder estructuras gramaticales, aprender caminar juntos. Pero la felicidad As an initiative of the Council of Europe, expresiones idiomáticas, aprender no duro mucho, cuando los dueños every year since 2001, the European Day lenguaje coloquial así como ampliar de los paraguas decidieron ir por of Languages is celebrated on Septem- los conocimientos culturales del estu- caminos diferentes. Entonces los ber 26. This occasion is celebrated not diante. paraguas se separaron, etc. only in Europe, but throughout the world. The European Day of Languages Sirven también para iniciar conver- Adiós Mama : represents the Council of Europe’s saciones espontaneas en la clase y https://www. philosophy that “linguistic diversity is a discutir temas diversos. Para facilitar youtube.com/ tool for achieving greater intercultural la conversación de los estudiantes, watch?v=kfU7uaTSBPI understanding”. se requiere explorar el vocabulario y Para hablar en el expresiones que aparecen en el corto- pasado utilizando The Council of Europe nominated for metraje. El profesor puede preparar el pretérito y el each country, national coordinators to con anticipación tarjetas con vocabu- imperfecto. support schools to organize their own lario y frases que aparecen en el cor- European Day of Languages activities tometraje, así los estudiantes tienen La carta : https://www.youtube. on September 26. If your school or your un punto de referencia y pueden com/watch?v=chiB1RPxSAo class would like to prepare an activity emplearlas en sus conversaciones. Para estudiar and is looking for ideas and to order sup- tiempos verbales port materials: Una actividad de comprensión escrita como el pretérito http://edl.ecml.at/Participate/Materi- que se puede hacer después de mirar perfecto y el als/tabid/1769/language/en-GB/De- un cortometraje es escribir en grupos pluscuamperfecto. fault.aspx utilizando un papel grande, un re- , please contact Jadwiga.Baranowicz@ sumen del cortometraje. Se le puede toronto.goethe.org - the EDL National pedir a los estudiantes que dibujen Coordinator for Canada – by June 18, lo que sucedió en el cortometraje y Señales : https://www.youtube. 2014. que cada ilustración este acompañada com/watch?v=j-d7cDQilj8 de frases que contengan estructuras Para gramaticales que se estén aprendi- hablar de la rutina de una endo en la clase. persona utilizando acciones reflexivas. Algunos cortometrajes Diez Minutos : https://www.you- El azulado : https://www.youtube. tube.com/watch?v=L4xDUZw9wJU com/watch?v=JMaWhAV40A4 Para hablar en el pasado. Celebrate the European Day of Languages on 26 September with us!

Did you know that ...? What is the • There are between 6000 and 7000 languages in European Day of the world with about 225 Languages (EDL)? indigenous languages in Europe A day to encourage language • Most of the world’s learning across Europe. languages are spoken in At the initiative of the Council Asia and Africa of Europe, Strasbourg, the • At least half of the world’s European Day of Languages has population are bilingual or been celebrated every year since plurilingual, i.e. they speak 2001 on 26 September. or understand two or more languages • Bilingualism makes the learning of additional languages easier and enhances the thinking process Why do we For more facts visit our website! celebrate the EDL? • To alert the public to the importance of language learning in order to increase Who is it for? plurilingualism and intercultural • Pupils / Students / Teachers understanding • Universities / Schools / • To promote the rich linguistic Cultural institutes / Language and cultural diversity of Europe institutes • To encourage lifelong language • Associations,... learning in and out of school In fact EVERYONE, who wants to celebrate linguistic diversity in Europe

EUROPEAN CENTRE FOR www.coe.int/EDL MODERN LANGUAGES join us on facebook: facebook.com/ecml.celv f CENTRE EUROPEEN POUR LES LANGUES VIVANTES 2. Extra (Extra) es una serie/sitcom Here are some of my favourite Twitter @RutaELE – Revista digital de in- disponible en YouTube que de seguro feeds with their descriptors (as posted novación educativa para profesores de les encantara a todos los alumnos. by the account holders, as of June E/LE. Espacio para compartir. Fue especialmente creada para alum- 2014): nos de lengua española. Los actores @snolen – Latin America Correspon- 23 hablan despacio y claramente. Es @AATSPglobal – [American Association dent for Canada’s @GlobeandMail, una forma divertida para los alumnos of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese] former corro in South Asia and Africa, aprender expresiones que se emplean Promoting the study and teaching of His- author of 28 Stories of AIDS in Africa, en el lenguaje común hablado en panic, Luso-Brazilian, and other related failed trapeze artist. España. La serie está llena de humor languages, literatures, and cultures at y situaciones de la vida diaria tales all educational levels. @sylviaduckworth - French teacher. como : ir de compras, buscar un tra- Excited by the creative & collab- bajo, conocer a alguien, etc. @ACFO_TO – L’Asso. des communautés orative aspects of technology.Always francophones de l’Ontario à Toronto a trying to think outside the box. Google 40 ans! Nous sommes la voix de 125 000 Certified Teacher. [Ed. note: also an Franco-torontois diversifiés, urbains, en OMLTA award winner!] plein essor. @TO2015 – Official Twitter account @ACTFL – The American Council on the for the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Teaching of Foreign Languages provides Games. vision, leadership & support for world language teaching & learning at all @ZJonesSpanish – Spanish teacher instruction levels. who loves learning with music & Los episodios se pueden encon- culture. trar en este enlace : https://www. @CPFOntario – Founded in 1977, CPF is youtube.com/results?q=extra%20 a proactive national network dedicated Note that the names of the accounts en%20espanol&hl=enCA&gbv= to ensuring children have the opportu- are not case-sensitive, so you can ac- 2&prmd=ivns&um=1&ie=UTF- nity to become bilingual in the Canadian cess them even if you do not use the 8&gl=CA&sa=N&tab=i1 school system. capital letters. Signing up for Twitter Enlace para diferentes takes about 15 seconds…and you will actividades con Extr@: http://www. @CSFontario – Compte officiel du soon be immersed in their online pres- channel4learning.com/learning/ Commissariat aux services en français de ence! microsites/E/extra/spanish_flash_ l’Ontario. For news in English follow @ home.html FLSContario. Send us your favourite second lan- @dw_deutsch guage-focused Twitter accounts to By Deilyn Campanoti @dw_espanol [email protected] and tell us York Region DSB @dw_francais why you love them! @dw_english – Up-to-the-minute news from around the world from Deutsche Also be sure to check out our new, Welle (German public broadcaster), expanded links page on the OMLTA Branchez-vous available in dozens of languagesand website! often with video. By Jimmy Steele Tweet your heart out! @educaINTEF – Instituto Nacional de Toronto DSB Tecnologías Educativas y de Formación Gazouilles-tu ? (Autrement dit, de Profesorado del Ministerio de Edu- tweetes-tu ?) ¿Twitteas? (Or depend- cación, Cultura y Deporte. (Spain) ing on the country, ¿tuiteas?) Twitterst du? Twitti? Tweetas? @LACSECML – Language Associations and Collaborative Support (LACS) is a It’s never too late to join the Twitter project that mediates between ECML universe. It can be very easy to get (European Center for Modern Languages) overwhelmed by the sheer volume of projects and language teacher associa- tweets that are sent out (estimated at tions and other networks. 350 to 400 million per day!), but if you choose to focus only on second language @LangCanada_ca – Resources for ESL education, your updates will be fast and and FSL / Ressources en français et en furious, yet manageable. anglais langues seconds. “Vouloir c’est pouvoir” is one way to REsouce describe Philippe Petit’s tour de force, A la prochaine! and “les tours” seems to be one of his Reviews specialties as well. Philippe is famous Contact us: for his high wire crossings. These OMLTA/AOPLV 24 include dancing in the air between 55 Northfield Drive East, Suite 246 the towers of la cathédrale de Notre Waterloo, ON Philippe Petit …. Un petit Dame à Paris, as well as the Twin N2K 3T6 nom, un grand effort Towers in New York while they were Phone: (519) 763-2099 under construction. This documentary Website: www.omlta.org film portrays his fascinating tale of Email: [email protected] clandestine planning, tension and fine Facebook: www.facebook.com/OMLTA balancing. Philippe truly loves what Twitter: www.twitter.com/OMLTA he does and performs for the thrill and the joy of it. His antics caught the We welcome your contributions, com- attention of authorities who actually ments, feedback, and ideas. Be a part asked him to make a high wire walk of Communication! Email the Editor between the Eiffel Tower and the Pal- directly: [email protected] ais de Chaillot on the opposite shore of the Seine. The next time you are à Newsletter designed by: la belle ville, à la Tour Eiffel, look for Design Ascend Scotland the plaque that commemorates his www.designascend.com walk.

This is a film that will entertain you and open your eyes to a talented performer.

By Christina Schilling Upper Grand DSB

Save the date! OMLTA Fall Conference 2014 Friday, October 17 to Saturday, October 18, 2014, Galt Collegiate Institute - Cambridge, ON Workshop proposals will be accepted at: http://www.omlta.org

Proposals are due by July 15, 2014. WORLD CONGRESS of modern deslangues languages vivantes

Collaborating across Languages and Borders La collaboration au-delà des langues et des frontières

26-28 • MARCH / MARS • 2015 NIAGARA FALLS | ON | CANADA

www.caslt.org/WCML-CMLV-2015

International Federation of Canadian Association of Ontario Modern Language Language Teacher Associations Second Language Teachers Teachers’ Association Fédération internationale des Association canadienne des Association ontarienne des professeurs de langues vivantes professeurs de langues secondes professeurs de langues vivantes