Calgary

๐Ÿ“š

Language Learning Resources

Overview of educational and community resources available to help newcomers and visitors learn or improve their English skills.

Sections

1. English Language Learning (ELL) Resources

For newcomers to Calgary, improving English proficiency is often a priority. Here are some of the best options:

a. Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC)

  • Overview: ISC offers free or low-cost English language programs for immigrants and refugees. They also provide language assessments and referrals to appropriate programs.
  • Programs:
    • Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC): A federally funded program offering free English classes to eligible permanent residents and refugees.
    • Conversation Circles: Informal sessions to practice speaking English in a supportive environment.
  • Cost: Free for eligible participants.
  • Enrollment Procedure:
    1. Book a language assessment through the Calgary Language Assessment and Referral Centre (CLARC).
    2. Based on your assessment, youโ€™ll be referred to a suitable program.
  • Website: www.immigrantservicescalgary.ca

b. Calgary Public Library

  • Overview: The library offers free resources for English learners, including conversation clubs, online tools, and access to language learning apps.
  • Programs:
    • ESL Conversation Clubs: Free, drop-in sessions to practice English with other learners.
    • Mango Languages: An online platform available for free with a library membership, offering English and other language courses.
  • Cost: Free with a library membership (library cards are free for Calgary residents).
  • Enrollment Procedure:
    1. Sign up for a free library card online or in person.
    2. Register for programs or access online tools through the libraryโ€™s website.
  • Website: www.calgarylibrary.ca

c. Bow Valley College

  • Overview: A leading institution in Calgary for adult education, Bow Valley College offers a range of English language programs.
  • Programs:
    • LINC Program: Free for eligible newcomers.
    • English Language Learning (ELL) Courses: For those who donโ€™t qualify for LINC or want more advanced training.
    • Academic English: For students preparing for post-secondary education.
  • Cost: LINC is free; other courses range from $300โ€“$1,000 depending on the program.
  • Enrollment Procedure:
    1. Take a language assessment through CLARC.
    2. Apply directly to Bow Valley College for the recommended program.
  • Website: www.bowvalleycollege.ca

d. YMCA Calgary

  • Overview: YMCA offers free English conversation classes and workshops for newcomers.
  • Programs:
    • English Conversation Circles: Informal sessions to practice speaking and listening skills.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Enrollment Procedure:
    1. Visit the YMCA website or contact a local branch to register.
  • Website: www.ymcacalgary.org

2. Learning Other Languages

If youโ€™re interested in learning a language other than English, Calgary has several options:

a. Alliance Franรงaise Calgary

  • Overview: A premier institution for learning French, offering classes for all levels.
  • Programs:
    • General French Courses: Group or private lessons.
    • Specialized French: Business French, DELF/DALF exam preparation.
  • Cost: Group classes start at $300โ€“$400 per session; private lessons are more expensive.
  • Enrollment Procedure:
    1. Take a placement test (if you have prior knowledge of French).
    2. Register for the appropriate course online or in person.
  • Website: www.afcalgary.ca

b. Spanish Centre Calgary

  • Overview: A dedicated center for learning Spanish, offering classes for all levels.
  • Programs:
    • Group Classes: Beginner to advanced levels.
    • Private Lessons: Tailored to individual needs.
  • Cost: Group classes start at $250โ€“$350 per session.
  • Enrollment Procedure:
    1. Register online or contact the center for assistance.
  • Website: www.spanishcentrecalgary.com

c. Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre

  • Overview: Offers Mandarin and Cantonese language classes for children and adults.
  • Programs:
    • Weekend and evening classes.
    • Cultural workshops to complement language learning.
  • Cost: Varies by program, typically $200โ€“$400 per session.
  • Enrollment Procedure:
    1. Contact the center directly to inquire about schedules and registration.
  • Website: www.culturalcentre.ca

d. Goethe-Institut (Online)

  • Overview: While there is no physical Goethe-Institut in Calgary, you can access their online German language courses.
  • Programs:
    • Online group or private lessons.
    • Self-paced courses.
  • Cost: โ‚ฌ200โ€“โ‚ฌ500 (approx. CAD $300โ€“$750) depending on the course.
  • Website: www.goethe.de

3. Online Language Learning Resources

For those who prefer self-paced learning or cannot attend in-person classes, Calgary residents can access several online platforms:

a. Duolingo

  • Overview: A free app offering courses in multiple languages, including English.
  • Cost: Free (optional premium subscription for $9.99/month).
  • Website: www.duolingo.com

b. Rosetta Stone

  • Overview: A paid platform offering immersive language learning in over 20 languages.
  • Cost: $11.99/month (billed annually) or $199 for a lifetime subscription.
  • Website: www.rosettastone.com

c. iTalki

  • Overview: Connects learners with native-speaking tutors for one-on-one lessons.
  • Cost: $10โ€“$30/hour depending on the tutor.
  • Website: www.italki.com

4. Community and Cultural Insights

  • Cultural Nuances:
    • Calgary is a welcoming city with a strong emphasis on multiculturalism. Donโ€™t hesitate to ask for help or practice your language skills with localsโ€”they are generally friendly and supportive.
    • Many community centers and religious organizations also offer free or low-cost language programs, so explore your local neighborhood for additional resources.
  • Networking Opportunities:
    • Join Meetup groups for language exchange. For example, โ€œCalgary Language Loversโ€ or โ€œSpanish Conversation Calgaryโ€ are popular groups.
    • Attend cultural festivals like the Calgary International Film Festival or GlobalFest to immerse yourself in different languages and cultures.

5. Tips for Success

  • Set Clear Goals: Determine whether you want to improve conversational skills, prepare for a test, or learn for professional purposes.
  • Practice Regularly: Join conversation clubs or find a language partner to practice speaking.
  • Leverage Technology: Use apps like Duolingo or Mango Languages to supplement your learning.
  • Be Patient: Language learning takes time, so celebrate small milestones along the way.

By leveraging these resources, youโ€™ll find plenty of opportunities to learn or improve your language skills in Calgary. Whether youโ€™re a newcomer or a visitor, the cityโ€™s diverse and inclusive environment makes it an ideal place to embark on your language learning journey.