What is FLES?

FLES stands for Foreign Language in Elementary School. The model is one that emphasizes learning content students already learn but in a different language. This allows students to simultaneously develop basic communication skills in the target language while also reinforcing the core curriculum.

Teachers are trained in language acquisition strategies.

What makes it effective?

• Literacy skills transfer
• Students tend to be more attentive - they learn to develop the ability to listen more carefully 
• It enhances cognitive and problem-solving skills
• Many modern-day English words can trace their origins to French: students connect language similarities to build vocabulary

French - a global language

• Knowledge of French enhances literacy and acquisition of English. French provides the base for more than 50% of the modern English vocabulary, which could improve performance on standardized tests.
• French represents diverse cultures around the world. It is used on five continents, in more than fifty countries, thirty of which are in Africa. French is one of the six official languages of the United Nations.
• French is a frequently taught language worldwide.
• French is one of the most commonly used languages in the business world.
• French and Francophone achievements in literature, arts, music, environmental sciences, diplomacy and government, mathematics, and sports allow many connections to content through French.