“Language learning is central to every learning project, for language is a vital aspect of communication and represents a vehicle for learning used in all subjects. Language enables students to organize their thoughts, to express themselves clearly and accurately, and to communicate effectively both orally and in writing in various situations. Since it provides access to knowledge, it is an essential tool for creating, analyzing, exercising critical judgment and describing or expressing ideas, perceptions and feelings. It is through language that we develop our view of the world since words, beyond codes and rules, convey the singular nature of thought. “(Quebec Education Program, p. 70)

The Quebec Education Program is now being implemented at all levels throughout elementary school and high school, so all ELA teachers are focusing on developing each student’s competency in Reading and Listening to texts; Using Language to Communicate and Learn; Writing; and Representing his/her Literacy in Different Media. With the Enhanced Learning Strategy (student laptop deployment), there has been a focus on integrating media within the program. The English Language Arts program is a literacy-based program, and so “text” includes media (visual and audio) forms as well as print forms.

The Eastern Townships School Board is working to enhance English Language Arts outcomes in many ways. Cycle One, Two, and Three elementary teachers are moving towards implementing a Balanced Literacy Model. Kindergarten and Cycle I teachers are implementing our Early Intervention Program which seeks to ensure that all students get off to a good start in reading and writing. Parents are encouraged to participate through the Read-at-Home program. Secondary English Language Arts teachers are looking at various ways of helping students with reading comprehension, particularly through teaching reading strategies.

We invite parents of students at all levels to be involved in encouraging their children’s development in English Language Arts. There are a number of ways that this can be done:
• Sharing what you are reading with your child
• Describing ways that you use reading and writing in your work and in your personal life
• Discussing what your child is reading and writing with him/her
• Subscribing to or borrowing from local libraries magazines that would be of interest to your child
• Reading to and/or with your child. For high school students this could be reading a short news item or article that you have found interesting.
• Writing to and/or with your child (e.g. short messages, thank-you notes, email, lists)
• Modeling enjoyment of reading – letting your child see you reading and finding pleasure or value in that.
• Making sure that there are books available in your home through either regular borrowing from local libraries, sharing with other families or family members, or buying appropriate level books
• Making sure that there are writing and craft materials available so that your child can create greeting cards, pictures with captions, stories, letters, etc.
Talking about movies or television shows, advertisements, and other media that you and your child have seen.