This is the second of two courses aimed for those who are new to Canada and those who plan to study full-time and/or immigrate to Canada. The course’s main purposes are to introduce the Canadian environment and various aspects of ‘how we do things’, as well as increase the student’s comfort in a Canadian learning environment whilst building their communicative skills in the English language. For a student who may be considering further studies in Canada, this also prepares him/her for the Canadian educational environment. The subject matter has a unique focus on living in British Columbia specifically. This course will help develop basic academic reading skills, express thoughts and convey information in an academically appropriate written form, prepare students for the listening needs they will have in college, and develop speaking skills essential for academic
success.

Emphasis is placed on developing a comfort in a classroom environment by applying the four language skills in an interactive and communicative form, integrating the functions of grammar, mechanics, and punctuation, complemented by practising the English language in community settings.

Upon completion of this course, participants will

• British Columbia Education
• BC Housing
• Health and Security in BC
• Communications and Media
• Working in BC
• Transportation and Driving
• Community Connections

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Describe the education system in B.C
• Summarise the various housing and accommodation options to a person living in B.C.
• Understand and explain the health care system in B.C. and Canada
• Identify and practise use of the various transportation modes in B.C. and in their local community
• Describe and demonstrate knowledge about driving a vehicle in B.C.
• Demonstrate knowledge and use of various communications networks and media found in B.C.
• Demonstrate knowledge and ability to make connections in their local community
• Describe attributes specific to B.C. in aspects such as multiculturalism, First Nations people, the types of industries and workplaces in B.C., local community profiles, and the geography and history of the province
• Identify the various agencies and other services that provide help for individuals and families in B.C.
• List the steps in the Canadian citizenship process and complete a mock citizenship test to illustrate their knowledge and study skills
• Apply the four main language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) in an interactive form
• Integrate important essential English skills such as grammar, mechanics and punctuation
• Notice, learn and practice English in various Canadian community settings
• Understand the similarities and differences in communication styles that happen in different relationships and different situations
• Extend learning outside of the classroom to improve communications skills in real life situations.

• Lecture/presentation
• Discussion
• Individual assignments
• Slide presentations, videos, and visual representations
• Group and collaborative work
• Computer/tablet activities