Canada is one of the countries in North America that is renowned for its bilingualism. Speaking French in Canada is not just considered a practical skill but a cultural treasure based on their heritage. If you hear whispers of French in the vibrant streets of Montreal and Ottawa, don’t be surprised.
Aside from its cultural advantage, embracing French as a Canadian resident improves your communication abilities. It enhances your career choices and helps you have a more profound knowledge of Canada’s diverse heritage. Read and learn more about learning French in Canada.
French Language in Canada Explained
France colonized Canada between the 17th and 18th centuries. Early French explorers like Jacques Cartier claimed territories in Canada, known as New France, in the 16th century. Thereafter, France established various colonies on the St. Lawrence River, and Quebec was the main area they settled. Even though Britain gained control of New France in the 17th century, French remains a significant language to this day. At some point, French became the official language in Quebec.
Benefits of Learning French in Canada
With the brief history highlighted above, it is clear that French is part of the cultural heritage of Canadians. Therefore, if you consider a professional life in Canada, you should consider learning French. Below are the benefits of learning French as a valuable skill in Canada:
- Enhances job opportunities: the bilingual nature of Canada is evident in its workforce, too. Employers in Canada actively search for people who can speak French and English. Being bilingual is an added advantage if your job has to do with interacting with the public. If you speak French and English, you will have a competitive edge in the job market.
- Government and public career: being bilingual in Canada provides opportunities for you in public service. What’s more, many positions in the government or public offices often require that you be bilingual.
- Cultural integration: French is part of Canada’s history and heritage. You can read French documents about Canada, and Canadian literature written in French is possible. In addition, you will be able to travel across many cities and communicate with locals without any hitch. You can become a French tutor Ottawa government.
- Educational advantage: Canada’s education system permits the use of French and English. French education is boosted by many renowned colleges offering programs that are entirely taught in French. Also, speaking French in Canada can improve your chances of a scholarship application.
- Personal growth: learning French in Canada will boost personal growth, whether you want to increase your career opportunities or learn more about Canada’s heritage. Learning another language increases your cognitive skills, such as memory and problem-solving. In addition, it would boost your brain health.
Conclusion
According to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, learning a second language improves your critical thinking and other cognitive skills. Don’t forget that French is the official language of many countries around the world. Finally, the French language exposes you to various opportunities.
