Second Language Initiative
As part of the profile of a 21st Century Learner, the ability to communicate in more than one language has become a required component of being a global citizen. In 2005, the CBE approved the grades 4-9 second language initiative. Schools should use the 9Y Alberta Education Program of Studies for the language being taught. Alberta Education supports the second language initiative.
Implementation Dates
While Alberta Education chose to delay implementation of the mandatory second language initiative, the CBE , in line with meeting its Ends and considering the profile of the 21st Century Learner, decided to proceed with the initiative for September 2006. This requirement is being phased in one grade level each year until 2011/2012, when all Grade 4-9 students will be required to study a second language, in addition to English.
As it is a CBE initiative, supported by Alberta Education Programs of Studies and resources, area directors will provide direction around support.
Additional languages can still be offered through the complementary/options program. The instruction of these languages should be based on the program of studies. If the study of the language is started in grade 4, then the 9Y version of the program should be used. If started in grade 7, then the 6Y version of the program should be used.
Once the first cohort of students reaches in grade 10 in 2012, students have the following options:
- continue study of the language started in grade 4 through the 9Y program of studies.
- continue the study of another language started in grade 7 through the 6Y program of studies.
- start the study of a new language through the 3Y program of studies.
