Literacy Foundations English Courses
SD62 Continuing Education offers Literacy Foundations English courses to adults who are ordinarily resident in BC and want to improve their English reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. We are currently running an in-person level 2-5 combined class Monday to Friday mornings. We are hoping to offer another level 2-5 class (Monday to Friday mornings) in early 2027 but are not yet able to confirm course availability or dates.
At-a-Glance Progression for Levels 2 to 5:
| Level | Reading | Writing | Speaking & Listening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Common words, signs, forms | Simple sentences | Basic conversations |
| 3 | Short texts and paragraphs | Short paragraphs | Group participation |
| 4 | Longer texts and summaries | Multi-paragraph writing | Presentations and discussions |
| 5 | Analysis and evaluation | Essays, reports, workplace writing | Formal communication and collaboration |
Focus
Building confidence with everyday reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
What students learn
- Read common words and phrases found in daily life
- Understand simple signs, symbols, labels, and forms
- Follow and participate in conversations
- Write simple sentences about familiar topics
- Use basic reading strategies such as predicting and asking questions
- Share personal experiences and ideas orally
Sample topics
- Personal information forms
- Community signs and directions
- Shopping and food labels
- Family and daily routines
- Health and safety basics
End-of-course skills
Students can read simple real-life materials, write short messages and sentences, and communicate basic needs and ideas.
Focus
Developing greater independence in reading and writing.
What students learn
- Read short paragraphs and simple informational texts
- Identify main ideas and key details
- Expand vocabulary for school, work, and community
- Write short paragraphs using complete sentences
- Participate in group discussions
- Use basic grammar, punctuation, and spelling strategies
Sample topics
- Community services
- Employment and workplace vocabulary
- Personal goals
- Local news and events
- Health and wellness
End-of-course skills
Students can understand short texts, write organized paragraphs, and discuss familiar topics with increasing confidence.
Focus
Strengthening comprehension, critical thinking, and communication skills.
What students learn
- Read longer informational and narrative texts
- Summarize information and identify supporting details
- Compare ideas and viewpoints
- Write multi-paragraph pieces
- Use planning, drafting, and editing processes
- Give oral presentations and participate effectively in discussions
Sample topics
- Workplace communication
- Community issues
- Canadian culture and citizenship
- Technology and media
- Personal and career planning
End-of-course skills
Students can work independently with a variety of texts, write organized multi-paragraph responses, and communicate ideas clearly in speaking and writing.
Focus
Preparing for transition to higher-level secondary courses, employment training, or further education.
What students learn
- Analyze a range of texts and viewpoints
- Evaluate information and draw conclusions
- Use research and information-gathering skills
- Write essays, reports, and workplace documents
- Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and editing skills
- Deliver presentations and participate in collaborative discussions
Sample topics
- Career exploration
- Current events
- Workplace documents
- Research projects
- Community and global issues
End-of-course skills
Students can read and respond critically to information, produce organized written work, and communicate effectively for work, education, and everyday life.