Mandarin Language Program at Forest Grove Elementary School (Burnaby)

Forest Grove is the only public elementary school in Burnaby which offers this unique language development program. We are privileged to have teachers who are bilingual in English and Mandarin. They teach the regular core curriculum in English as prescribed by the Ministry of Education with a component of the language arts curriculum in Mandarin. The program started in 2010 and we currently have classes in Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2. As registration allows, the program will continue to expand a grade each year reaching to Grade 7 at full capacity. The students in our program have diverse cultural backgrounds with strong English language skills. The program is an introduction to the Mandarin language and the Chinese culture where young children can explore a new world through many artistic and physical activities. Students gain confidence and skills in a linguistic voyage filled with music, dance, drama, stories and arts & crafts. For primary grades, it is focused on developing Mandarin conversational skills. The classes incorporate many fun activities to engage students at their age level and participates in our annual school-wide cultural performance celebrating Chinese New Year. The Burnaby Board of Education is committed to providing students with new and exciting programs. Details regarding this program include: -Optional for families with children commencing Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3 in September 2013 -The program is located at Forest Grove Elementary School -Students will study the regular core curriculum in English as prescribed by the Ministry of Education -A component of the Language Arts curriculum will be delivered in Mandarin -The program is designed for students who have strong English language skills The program will develop: -Mandarin oral communication skills -Reading and writing skills (Chinese simplified language) -An understanding of and appreciation for Mandarin Chinese culture Application information: -A District Language Application form must be completed and submitted by February 28th. -Application forms are located on the District website (http://sd41.bc.ca/schools/registration/pdf/lang_prog_app_form.pdf) or available at all Burnaby Elementary Schools. Please visit these websites for more information: http://www.sd41.bc.ca/mandarin/index.htm http://forestgrove.sd41.bc.ca http://sd41.bc.ca/schools/elementary/pdf/forest_grove_2006.pdf http://sd41.bc.ca/schools/registration/pdf/lang_prog_app_form.pdf