#Teach English in Ontario

[niibaataa]

Nishnaabe Nagamonan

Disclaimer: Some works deal with historical wrongs, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, colonialism, and residential/boarding schools. Exercise caution.

Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm is a member of Saugeen Ojibway First Nation. Akiwenzie-Damm has served as Poet Laureate for Owen Sound and North Grey. In 1993, she established Kegedonce Press, a publishing house devoted to Indigenous writers. She has also authored Without Reservation: Indigenous Erotica.

Works: (Re)Generation, My Heart is a Stray Bullet.

Marie Annharte Baker is a member of Little Saskatchewan First Nation. Annharte's work concentrates on women, urban, Indigenous, disability, and related topics. She critiques life from Western Canada. After graduating with an English degree in the 1970s, she became involved in Native activism and was one of the first people in North America to teach a class entirely on Native women.

Works: Indigena Awry, Miskwagoode, Exercises in Lip Pointing.

Lesley Belleau is a member of Garden River First Nation. She is noted for her 2017 collection Indianland. She has an MA in English literature from the University of Windsor and is working on a PhD in Indigenous Studies from Trent University.

Works: Indianland.

Kimberly M. Blaeser is an enrolled member of the White Earth Reservation. Blaeser served as Wisconsin's Poet Laureate from 2015-2016. She is a professor of English at the University of Wisconsin-Miluwakee. A contemporary of Vizenor, she is the first critic to publish a book-length study on his fiction. She has been writing poetry since 1993.

Works: Apprenticed to Justice, Trailing You, Absentee Indians and Other Poems.

Diane Burns was a member of the Lac Courte Oreilles band. Burns was Anishinaabe through her mother and Chemehuevi through her father. Burns attended the Institute of American Indian Arts and Barnard College (within Columbia University). She was also an accomplished visual artist. She is considered an important figure within the Native American contemporary arts movement.

Works: Riding the One-Eyed Ford (available online).

Aja Couchois Duncan is a Bay Area educator, writer, and coach. Duncan is of Ojibwe, French, and Scottish descent. Her debut collection won the California Book Award. She holds an MFA in creative writing from San Francisco State University.

Works: Restless Continent, Vestigal.

Heid E. Erdrich is a member of the Turtle Mountain band. Erdrich is a granddaughter of Patrick Gourneau, who fought against Indian termination during his time as tribal chairman from 1953-1959. Erdrich holds a PhD in Native American Literature and Writing. Erdrich used to teach, but has since stepped back from doing it full-time. She directs Wiigwaas Press, an Ojibwe language publisher.

Works: Cell Traffic, The Mother's Tongue, Curator of Ephemera at the New Museum for Archaic Media.

Louise Erdrich is a member of the Turtle Mountain band. Erdrich is a granddaughter of Patrick Gourneau, who fought against Indian termination during his time as tribal chairman from 1953-1959. She is widely acclaimed as one of the most significant writers of the Native American Renaissance. Owner of Birchbark Books, an independent bookstore that focuses on Native Literature.

Works: Jacklight, Original Fire, Baptism of Desire.

David Groulx was raised in Elliott Lake, Ontario. Groulx is Ojibwe and French Canadian. He received his BA in Literature from Lakehead University and later studied creative writing at the En'owkin Centre in British Columbia. He has also studied creative writing at the University of Victoria.

Works: From Turtle Island to Gaza, Rising With a Distant Dawn, Imagine Mercy.

Gordon Henry Jr is an enrolled member of the White Earth Reservation. Gordon Henry Jr holds a PhD in Literature from the University of North Dakota and is currently a professor of English at Michigan State University. He has authored several novels and poetry collections and is a celebrated writer in Michigan.

Works: Spirit Matters, The Failure of Certain Charms.

Jane Johnston Schoolcraft was Born in Sault Ste. Marie on Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Schoolcraft was given the name of Bamewawagezhikaquay ('Woman of the Sound that the stars make Rushing Through the Sky') in Ojibwe. Her mother was Ozhaguscodaywayquay, the daughter of the Ojibwe war chief Waubojeeg. Her father was fur-trader John Johnston. Johnston is regarded as the first major Native American female writer. She wrote letters and poems in both English and Ojibwe.

Writeup containing works.

Denise Lajimodiere is a citizen of the Turtle Mountain band. Lajimodiere is considered an expert on Native American boarding schools following her work Stringing Rosaries, published in 2019. She is a poet, professor, scholar, and the current Poet Laureate of North Dakota.

Works: His Feathers Were Chains, Thunderbird: Poems, Dragonfly Dance.

Linda Legarde Grover is a member of the Bois Forte Band. She is a columnist for the Duluth Tribune and Professor Emeritus of American Indian Studies at University of Minnesota (Duluth). She has written poetry, short stories, and essays.

Works: The Sky Watched, Onigamiising.

Sara Littlecrow-Russel is of Ojibwe and Han-Naxi Métis descent. Russell is a lawyer and professional mediator as well as a poet. She has worked at the Center for Education and Policy Advocacy at the University of Massachusetts and for Community Partnerships for Social Change at Hampshire College.

Works: The Secret Powers of Naming.

Jim Northrup was a member of the Fond du Lac Reservation in Minnesota. Northrup lived a traditional lifestyle in his early years. As a child, he attended an Indian boarding school where he suffered physical abuse. Later in life, he served in the Vietnam war and experienced PTSD. Much of his poetry comes from these hardships.

Works: Walking the Rez Road, Rez Salute: The Real Healer Dealer, Anishinaabe Syndicated.

Duke Redbird was born in Saugeen First Nation. He became a ward of Children's Aid at nine months old when his mother died in a house fire. He began writing to give words to his experiences as an Indigenous man raised by white foster families. He is recognized as a key figure in the development of First Nations literature.

His poetry is available on his site.

Denise Sweet is a member of the White Earth Reservation in Minnesota. Sweet served as Wisconsin's Poet Laureate from 2004-2008. She has taught creative writing, literature, and mythology at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Works: Songs for Discharming, Palominos Near Tuba City.

Mark Turcotte is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band. Turcotte is a visiting assistant professor of English at DePaul University. He has published two books of poetry. His chapbook, Road Noise, was translated into French.

Works: The Feathered Heart, Exploding Chippewas.

E. Donald Two-Rivers was raised in Emo Township, Ontario. He moved to Chicago at age 16 and became involved with the Urban Native community there. A playwright, spoken-word performer, and a poet, Two-Rivers had been an activist for Native rights since the 1970s. He was the founding director of the Chicago-based Red Path Theater Company.

Works: Powwows, Fat Cats, and Other Indian Tales, A Dozen Cold Ones by Two-Rivers.

Gerald Vizenor is an enrolled member of the White Earth Reservation. Vizenor has published over 30 books. He taught at the University of California for many years and is currently at the University of New Mexico. He has a long history of political activism and he is considered one of the most prolific Indigenous ironists writing today.

Works: Favor of Crows, Cranes Arise, Empty Swings.

[phonaesthemes]

What if a Monopoly game board featured names and places relevant to Kanien'kehá:ka (Mohawk) culture instead of Reading Railroad and Park Place? That's what Niiakohontésha Gray envisioned when creating resources in Kanien'kéha, or the Mohawk language. "Whenever I was going to school ... we had a lot of different resources but I noticed I don't really have any games or [more fun] resources that you could play," said Gray, who is from Akwesasne, on the Quebec, Ontario and New York state borders. "I know for me, it's a lot easier learning whenever it's more fun." Gray is a graduate of Ratiwennahní:rats, a two-year adult language immersion program offered by the Kanien'kehá:ka Onkwawén:na Raotitióhkwa Language and Cultural Center in Kahnawà:ke, south of Montreal. After she graduated, she began teaching children at a grassroots immersion school in Ganienkeh, a settlement near Altona, N.Y. She noticed her students would always grab board games in English to play during their breaks, and wanted them to have options in their language.  She began translating and re-creating prototypes of various popular board games to reflect Kanien'kehá:ka language and culture and is now producing copies for other educators, language learners and their families. "I'm not the best speaker but I have an idea of what I want to do," she said.

That meant, instead of railroads, kids can land on kanonhséhsne —  longhouses — in Ganienkeh, Kahnawà:ke and Akwesasne. Tekiatén:ros, a matching game, uses words from a dictionary of Kanien'kéha nouns that is produced by the Kanien'kehá:ka Onkwawén:na Raotitióhkwa Language and Cultural Center. Teiotién:taron River McComber, who teaches in Ganienkeh and worked with Gray before she left for a new job in her community, says it's a creative way to reinforce the curriculum that students in Ratiwennahní:rats and elsewhere learn.  McComber was also in Ratiwennahní:rats, in the cohort a year ahead of Gray. "All the schools that I've been to would love to have these things because when I was working there [we] didn't have anything quite like this," said McComber. McComber said there aren't enough language resources available beyond the classroom, especially for children and even for many grassroots schools, being creative with the curriculum falls on the teachers. "Everybody would love this to happen but nobody is kind of taking time out of their work space to do it," said McComber.  "She's doing what she can, and it's wonderful." For Gray, doing this has helped her break out of her comfort zone by having to approach former classmates and elders to help with translations. "I have to reach out to people; I have to talk to people," she said. "I have a hard time reaching out to elders ... just because I know they're real fluent and I know that I'm not…. [I] just feel like I'm going to mess up and I'm just gonna embarrass myself. But I ended up reaching out to a few of them, and talked to them and … they helped me."

[goldenbloodytears]

I would really like to know more about Sam, without spoiling the plot of future projects what can you say about her and Danny in the asks 2, 3, 9, 10, 14 and 15?

Also if Sam was a character of the scream franchise which one would she be?

Send by Mx. 👍

2. How do they treat themselves when they're feeling sad?

Sam's go to is to put on Elton John (most likely Honky Chateau—I can probably write a small piece on how Rocket Man can be seen as a metaphor for gay alienation) and then probably get a big tub of ice cream going. She’s not a stranger to depressive spirals, but sad and depressed are not quite the same thing—she deals with sad a lot better than depressed I would say.

With Danny… I think he tends to bypass sad and go straight to irritated. I’m a big believer in old man Johnson toxic masculinity indoctrination, so Danny probably lowkey thinks crying is for weaklings (and women). I think he might result to trying to calm himself with a couple drinks if for some reason he can’t immediately fix the problem that is causing him to be sad/irritated… however, said combo is more likely to lower his inhibition… and that’s when you’re probably more likely to get an impromptu murder (in comparison to his more planned stories).

3. What parts of themselves do they tend to hide?

Sam tends to hide her sexuality. Or at least attempt to. She lives in a small town, and the gossip mill would surely have a field day with the local English lady reporter turning out to be a “lesbian” (because bisexuals don’t exist in 1994 /sarcasm). The result is where she’s inoffensive enough to not cause outright homophobic drama, but she’s not exactly living the best life she could be either… especially when she’s partly trying to play nice for a family that aren’t nearly as accepting as they could be.

Danny hides himself. To be clearer, I’ve been considering whether his usage of personas happen to allow him to connect with an element of himself that has long been suppressed by his old man’s teachings. This is kind of a half-baked thought that I need to think about more. It’s a bit like being a method actor, an inherent element of performance. Think about how many seemingly outgoing and over confident performers are actually rather introverted (and not just because of paparazzi hounds)… also consider how people tend to act more freely when anonymous, for good or ill. Danny hides a lot of himself, he hides his literal self as Danny, but also other elements. His sexuality just like Sam, since being a bisexual man in the 90s is just… asking for trouble. However, he’s so strongly manifested in his expected gender roles as a masculine military brat that you wouldn’t even guess he might be queer unless you went for some crazy extreme like the fact he tends to dress well on average. I don’t think his personas suddenly act flaming (just to be clear) but he’s a little bit nicer, way more talkative, a little bit goofier/nerdier and I don’t think it’s entirely an act (although he believes it is and will tell you so).

9. What are their insecurities?

Sam is insecure about many things at the start of the story. This isn’t really a plot spoiler. She’s insecure about the fact both her brothers are married with kids, she’s insecure about the fact she’s queer, she’s insecure about her relationship with her girlfriend. She’s insecure about her future in the province she was born in—quick history lesson, in 1994 Quebec proposed a provincial referendum to decide whether the citizens of Quebec largely supported the idea of Quebec becoming its own sovereign country to be voted on in 1995. There was a major divide along language lines with English speaking Quebecers largely supporting the federalist Canadian position (No) while the French-speaking Québécois generally supported the sovreignist Yes side. There was a large exodus of English speaking Quebecers from the province around this time, settling in Ontario and Alberta primarily. You had small towns with flourishing English populations suddenly lose multiple families which had lived there for generations only for the towns to become much more French. This is the situation Sam finds herself facing, working as a local English newspaper which is now struggling as a result of less readership… so honestly she’s even kinda insecure about the future of her job too, period, lol.

I think Danny’s insecurities would require a whole post of their own, however, I’ve briefly touched on one of them in question 15.

10. What are their emotional triggers?

For Sam: curiosity, fear, frustration.

For Danny: boredom, frustration, praise.

I’m not entirely sure what this question is asking so I’ve kinda listed the emotions that I think are most likely to motivate them to do something for good or worse.

14. What kind of people do they tend to gravitate towards?

Sam tends to gravitate towards people with big personalities. She’s a much more subdued person and kinda lives vicariously through them. She’s intrigued by the promise of life outside small town Quebec, so it’s very easy to get her attention with stories of travel. She has a major obsession with this random cold case that happened when she was a teenager, to the point that everyone thinks she’s a little bit weird for it, and in this way she’s also drawn to people that will put up with this particular quirk. I think you can already see where I’m going with this.

Danny, like a true confidence trickster, is drawn to people most likely to believe his bullshit. This doesn’t mean he looks for idiots, he’s still a bit of a wannabe academic blowhard in spirit and as such I think he’s still drawn to people who profess at least a bit of a braincell…. But it’s the trust element. He’s looking for people who want to believe what he says. He’s also looking for people who think he’s cool. Even if he’s Jed or persona #632.

So when taking these tendencies together, you can already kind of start to see how Danny and Sam compliment each other in terms of the people they are seeking. They’re both looking for somebody who’s going to gas them up—feed their egos and hope for the future.

15. What do they like/dislike about themselves?

Sam likes her skills as a journalist, she feels like her stubbornness is a useful trait. She wishes she was better at being more traditionally feminine. She dislikes her height, at 5’10” she towers over a lot of guys and it’s worse if she wears heels.

I feel like we all have a rough idea of what Danny “likes” about himself, so I’ll focus on what he dislikes. His emotionality. He knows he can be impulsive, and he thinks feelings like fear, anger, and sadness are not particularly useful for himself when he’s supposed to be this killer who goes around murdering in the night. If he could be a mindless killer, I’m sure he would do so.

Bonus: What character in Scream would Sam be?

Hmmm, that’s a very good question. I think I would need to do a complete series rewatch to really pin it down but I think she would kinda be a weird proxy if you were to mix Gail and Dewey together (she’s their forbidden baby). She has a lot of Gail’s tenacious journalism qualities but she’s a lot nicer, similar to Dewey. Her brother Chris is also a cop, so she’s a little bit functional to Tatum in a way.

[english-lessons-bolzano]

HOW TO SAY "SCUOLA ELEMENTARE" IN ENGLISH

1 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (Canada, US, Philippines, historically UK, education) A school for children, typically older than toddlers and younger than adolescents. In the U.S., elementary schools cover grades 1 through 5, and the ages of the children are usually 6-11 years. At a minimum, elementary schools will teach basic reading, writing, arithmetic, and history.

2 PRIMARY SCHOOL

(British, Australia, sometimes Philippines, education) A formal, obligatory kind of school that typically begins with nursery school or first grade and ends at fifth or sixth grade.

3 GRADE SCHOOL

(US, Philippines, rarely Canada, education)

4 GRAMMAR SCHOOL

(US, rare, regional)

5 JUNIOR SCHOOL

(UK) A school providing education to children in Key Stage 2, i.e. for four academic years from September after a child's 7th birthday.

(Australia) Usually a part of a private school that educates children between the ages of 2 and 5.

(Canada, chiefly Ontario) A school teaching children from kindergarten to Grade 5; an elementary school.

6 LOWER SCHOOL or FIRST SCHOOL

(UK, education) In the three-tier education system, a school for children until the age of eight or nine.

Silvio Pasqualini Bolzano inglese ripetizioni English

[sipsofsecrets]

ˏˋ 𓂃 ( ana de armas. cis-female. she/her. ). meet amara morales cortez, a 36 year old, who has been in cloyne for 11 years. they are a teacher at clone high school, known for being graceful even in stressful situations and their home-wrecker reputation. they are often heard humming along to young and beautiful by lana del rey. residents would describe them as the mayor's mistress. ( klein, 29, she/her, est )

A U R A

soft rustling of silk as she walks through her home, a mixture of grace and purpose in every step. shadows cast by flickering candlelight during late-night reading sessions, a glass of red wine untouched beside her. scent of aged wood and books in her study, a space where she finds peace amidst the chaos of her life. quiet moments after a playful argument with her husband, his words still lingering in the air as she considers what it would mean to give up teaching. sound of her children playing in the background, their laughter a reminder of the family she’s built, though she longs for more. sharp click of her heels as she leaves the school after a long day, knowing her husband would prefer her home, but feeling too attached to the life she’s created for herself. late nights curled up with a book, one hand absentmindedly resting on her stomach, thinking about the possibility of another child. classical music echoing through the house while she cooks dinner for her family, an elegant façade hiding the fear underneath.

P R O F I L E

birth name: ana maria rojas, amara morales (given when she entered witness protection), amara morales cortez (she took the last name cortez after marrying victor).

nicknames: the first lady (a nickname among locals, acknowledging her position as the mayor’s wife), the mayor's mistress.

date of birth: april 30, 1988.

age: 36.

height: 5'6" / 167 cm.

gender: cis-female.

pronouns: she/her.

sexuality: bisexual heterosexual.

relationship status: married to victor cortez (the mayor).

birthplace: havana, cuba.

currently resides: cloyne, ontario.

husband: victor cortez, the mayor of cloyne.

children: 7-year-old twins (mateo and clara cortez).

step-children: emilio (21 y/o) and julian cortez (22 y/o) from victor’s previous marriage.

religion: catholic (non-practicing, more out of habit than faith)

education: undergraduate degree (history+ english literature), teaching certificate

languages: spanish (native), english (fluent), french (basic).

occupation: history + social studies teacher at cloyne high school.

A T T R I B U T E S

preferred hand: left-handed

blood type: O+ (universal donor, think the giving tree)

allergies: none

physical health: maintains an active lifestyle, balancing the demands of motherhood with self-care. practices yoga when she has time, but isn’t rigid about it.

mental health: occasional bouts of paranoia. deals with suppressed fear of her past catching up to her (especially regarding the safety of her family). compartmentalizes emotions and stress to maintain control. haunted by memories of her early life causes her sleepless nights or vivid flashbacks

P E R S O N A

taurus sun. intj. melancholic. 6w5 (the loyalist).

graceful (maintains her composure in every situation). intelligent (planning ahead to stay in control of her life). compassionate (deeply cares for her husband, children, students, and those closest to her). self-controlled (rarely acts impulsively).

secretive (she guards her past carefully). mistrustful (years of hiding have made her wary of others). perfectionist (she strives for flawlessness in everything she does, mistakes could unravel her life).

R E L A T I O N S

her husband: amara calls victor "mi sol," a term of endearment that signifies the steady, grounding force he is in her life. despite their deep connection, there is ongoing tension between them.

children: her relationship with her twins is loving, and she is a dedicated mother. however, her relationship with her step-sons is more strained. they remain wary of her, knowing she was once their father’s mistress. while she tries to play the role of a nurturing stepmother, there is a distance between them, and amara senses they don’t fully trust her.

students: as a teacher at cloyne high school, amara is respected for her compassion. she’s known for being firm but fair.

reputation in cloyne: amara is known for her composure, even in the face of scandal. despite being the mayor’s wife, many in town still refer to her as “the mayor’s mistress,” a label that follows her due to the circumstances of her marriage. she’s both admired for her elegance and whispered about for her past. her reputation as a home-wrecker hasn’t faded over the years, but she carries herself with dignity, never reacting to the gossip.

public persona: amara is the epitome of grace. she dresses impeccably and speaks carefully, always conscious of how she is perceived. while the town still gossips about her past, she never gives them fuel for new rumours. she attends town events as the mayor’s wife, playing the part of the supportive spouse.

H A B I T S

sips her coffee slowly, savouring it.

never rushing through mornings.

organizes her desk meticulously.

taps her nails against her glass or on her desk when she is deep in thought.

L I K E S

vintage perfume (prefers the scent of jasmine, sandalwood, and leather—her signature fragrance).

books (historical fiction and mystery novels and erotica).

fine cigars (especially if they're cuban).

rare, vintage jewelry

away from her children and husband's eyes: bourbon (prefers it neat, a reminder of her power and control).

hunting (another sport she does not like to indulge in around her children nor her husband).

D I S L I K E S

discussing her past or her family in cuba.

invasion of her personal space.

unannounced visits.

public scrutiny.

messes. especially bloody messes.

A P P E A R A N C E

so strikingly beautiful that her presence that commands attention, her features are soft but strong at the same time. light eyes, full lips, dark hair. her body is lean and tone, she walks with the grace of royalty.

S T Y L E

often wears tailored dresses, fitted blouses and slacks. at home she favours soft, comfortable fabrics like cashmere sweaters and silk robes but her wardrobe has always been stocked with elegance.

T A T T O O S

a small delicate sun tattoo on her ribcage just beneath her heart (mi sol). a delicate constellation on the inside of her right wrist with two stars representing her twins-- below each star are their birthdates in roman numerals.

S T O R I E S U N T O L D

1988: ana maria rojas was born in havana, cuba. her father was deeply involved in organized crime. despite this, he loved his children deeply, and when his criminal ties put them at risk, he made a deal with the united states government to become an informant.

1999: by age of 11, ana maria witnessed several heinous crimes due to her father’s criminal involvement. these experiences deeply affected her, making her develop a strong aversion to messes and blood. as the danger grew, her father arranged for her to be smuggled out of cuba to miami for her safety. ana had to leave her brother behind, who was only 9 years old because he had already been pulled into the gang, which has haunted her ever since.

2003: by the time she turned 15, ana maria was placed in the witness protection program and moved to canada, under the new identity of amara morales. the increased risk to her life prompted this move.

2003 - 2012: during her years in vancouver, canada amara lived with foster parents who gave her stability, but she always carried the trauma of leaving her brother behind in cuba. she feared that the criminal organizations her father betrayed might find her, so she stayed vigilant and distant from others. the memories of the crimes she witnessed in cuba continued to shape her, causing her deep discomfort with anything bloody or messy.

2012: after the mysterious death of her foster parents, amara felt the need to leave vancouver and start fresh. she relocated to cloyne, ontario, seeking a quiet, hidden life.

2013: amara met victor cortez, the mayor of cloyne, at a time when she was desperate for stability and security. she viewed him as her safety net in a world that constantly felt unstable. that is how their scandal began. though the town gossiped and even labeled her as “the mayor’s mistress," she clung to victor, seeing him as the foundation to the new life she had always longed for.

2017: amara and victor married, and she became amara morales cortez. they had twins, and amara found some peace in motherhood. perhaps this is why she longs for another child. she wants the peace and distraction of a baby's cry. or maybe it's because the rumours the town spreads have a deeper effect on her psyche than she cares to show.

present: amara lives a life of constant vigilance, even though she outwardly seems to have it all—a family, a husband, and a career. she is haunted by memories of her brother and the crimes she witnessed, forever torn between the life she’s built and the past she’s tried to bury.

W A N T E D C O N N E C T I O N S

THE JOURNALIST – there’s a local reporter who has always been suspicious of amara's past. they’ve been quietly investigating her for years, convinced there’s more to her than just being the mayor’s wife.

THE EX-LOVER - before marrying victor, amara had a brief but intense relationship with someone in cloyne. though the affair ended, there’s still a flicker of unresolved tension whenever they see each other.

THE STEP-SON - one of victor’s adult sons still harbours deep resentment toward amara for breaking up his parents’ marriage. their interactions are cold and hostile, but there’s an underlying tension of unresolved conflict between them.

THE BEST FRIEND – amara’s closest confidante in cloyne is a fellow teacher at the high school. they bond over their shared love of history and their ability to keep each other’s secrets, providing emotional support when needed.

THE FORMER STUDENT - amara remains close to a former student who has grown up and is now friends with her step-sons. despite their friendship with her step-sons, this person maintains a special bond with amara, often turning to her for advice and guidance.

THE PARENT FRIEND – one of the other moms from her children’s school has become a casual friend. they bond over school events and playdates, providing amara with a light, friendly connection outside her family drama.

[tsunflowers]

Okay, I watched that Video on the France French pronunciation of Gratin, and that definitely is different from how it is pronounced here. It may be the type of thing where the influence of English in the Ottawa-Gatineau accent makes it sound like that.

It should also be noted that a native speaker of Canadian French and Canadian who learned it as a second language may still have different accents & even vocabulary, because in school here in Ontario the French we are taught is closer to France French. For example, we are taught that the word for a car is “une voiture”, while a native Québécois would just say “un char” (but we are taught “souliers” for shoes even though in France they are normally called “chaussures”).

While many Québécois terms are anglicismes, sometimes it is the opposite, and Québec kept an old/obscure/regional French term that got anglicized or or lost in France for various reasons like the standardization of the language during Napoleon’s time. For example, in France the word for a ferryboat is “ferry-boat”, while in Québec it is "traversier".

-

I think they should teach Québécois French in Canadian schools. bc if you live in ontario are you more likely to go to France or Québec? you can’t be talking about voitures when you go to the next province over

it’s really a fascinating language difference... especially the times when Québécois actually has the more “historical” French. I don’t think it’s different enough to be considered a “dialect” but to me it seems worth learning. or at least worth learning about

[dialogues-across-centuries]

Thank you @becomingapoet for tagging me. 🙏 I've never done anything like this, so it should be fun! 😊

1. Are you named after anyone?

I'm named after two people, actually – my first name is my dad's (Tim/Timothy), and my middle name is my grandfather's (Michael).

2. When was the last time you cried?

Twice this morning. 😆 I'm a super watery person, so it doesn't take a whole lot to move me emotionally lol.

3. Do you have kids?

Not of my own (in the biological sense), but I do have a 12-year-old stepson who lives with my partner and I half the time, and his dad the other half. There aren't really any words I can say that will do him justice, but he's a wonderful guy, and we have a great relationship. He's helped me grow as a person more than pretty much anyone I've ever met.

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot?

Not in the traditional sense. My partner and I have a few semi-sarcastic inside jokes between us, but they're really quite light-hearted and silly — they're never at anyone's expense or anything like that. (I'm also on the autism spectrum, so I'm admittedly not very good at detecting sarcasm lol. Sometimes I even have to ask her whether she's joking about something or not.)

5. What’s the first thing you notice about people?

I notice different things about people at different times/in different situations, but one of the most common is how they treat others.

6. What’s your eye color?

My eyes are brown, but they also appear green at times.

7. Scary movie or happy ending?

I am a definite lover of happy endings, but I'm also a great lover of the macabre, so that's a tough one. I would say my natural preference for peaceful resolution comes out on top, though.

8. Any special talents?

Other than poetry, I'm pretty good at divination, especially via Tarot, astrology, geomancy, and dream interpretation.

Bonus secret talent — I used to be a decent rapper in my late teens/early 20s, which, in all honesty, is where I got my start in poetry.

9. Where were you born?

I was born in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, but I've lived in Niagara Falls for pretty much all my life, other than two brief periods in Toronto and Hamilton.

10. What are your hobbies?

As an autistic person, my "hobbies" are more like all-encompassing obsessions that I can neither live nor function without. 😆

That being said, I spend a great deal of time studying and practicing esoteric traditions like alchemy, astrology, Kabbalah/Qabalah, Tarot, & ritual magic — and my partner Julia and I also do a lot of teaching in this realm through a blog we run called Spiral Sea Tarot.

I also love studying a number of different world religions, comparative mythology, psychology, philosophy, art, & literature.

I am also a great lover of Chinese/Taiwanese tea and tea culture. I'm especially fond of puerh — a post-fermented tea that undergoes a gradual transformation over several years from a vibrant, yellowish brew to a complex, earthy red.

11. Do you have any pets?

We have a highly-strung, but always lovable muted tortie cat named Maeby.

12. What sports do/have you played?

Mostly baseball, but I've played a bit of hockey, football, and volleyball as well.

13. How tall are you?

6'1"

14. Favorite subject in school?

English and Psychology

15. Dream job?

I'd love for my partner and I to be able to do our work together on a larger scale, and in more of a full-time capacity than life currently allows. You can't really beat doing what you love with the person you love doing it with!

I haven't been here long enough to get to know anyone yet, so I tag anyone who is reading this. Thanks for your time! 🙏

[preoccupied-educator]

15 Questions 15 Mutuals

Thank you for the tag @claire8216 (let's pretend it hasn't been 5 months since you tagged me, k? K!)

Rules: answer the questions and tag fifteen mutuals.

1. Are you named after anyone? My mom and I share a middle name, which is after my great aunt

2. When was the last time you cried? Oh gosh, recently anything can make me tear up...I cried over a Jiara fan edit yesterday 🤷🏼‍♀️

3. Do you have kids? One!

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot? Absolutely yes, a second language for me basically

5. What’s the first thing you notice about people? Hmm...usually their expression, are they happy? sad? do they look approachable?

6. What’s your eye color? Grey-blue

7. Scary movies or happy endings? Team HEA 4ever <3 (scary movies are not really for me)

8. Any special talents? Umm...I am particularly good at cooking/replicating favourite dishes without a recipe, which is probably due to the amount of time I spent in the kitchen during my formative years

9. Where were you born? A tiny town in Northern Ontario

10. What are your hobbies? I currently don't have much time for hobbies but, when I do, I enjoy reading, writing, hiking/exploring, baking and gardening

11. Have you any pets? I have a cat and a dog

12. What sports do you play/have played? Slo-pitch baseball, figure skating, hockey, volleyball, basketball, badminton, dance (ballet, jazz, tap), and horseback riding (English showmanship, hunter/jumper, western games)

13. How tall are you? 5′4″ (on a good day)

14. Favorite subject in school? English, Photography, Woodworking, and Outdoor Ed

15. Dream job? Hm..something in education, I'm happy where I am teaching elementary right now, but it would be nice to do something where my livelihood didn't rely on the incompetence of our elected officials

Um...I don't know that there are 15 people who haven't already been tagged in this, so! I'm going to break the rules and say, anyone who wishes to participate/didn't get tagged feel free!

[sapphicacademic]

After you finish your studies will you be able to teach English?

it depends what you mean by teach English. Here in Ontario, I'd need additional couple years in teachers' college before I'd be able to teach something like high school English

If you mean teach English to people who don't know the language, I honestly don't know. I think it depends on if I were to go to work in another country or not, or what qualifications they had. It isn't something I've really looked into

[pompadourpink]

Ontario dude anon here! That video (and the other anons input) helped a bit! It kinda does sound like the way he speaks but at the same time it doesn’t. The people in the video still have that sort of French twang to their accent mixed with what sounds like a general American/Canadian one.

Maybe it’s just that he sort of lost the natural accent over time? He’s been in America speaking almost exclusively English since he was about 10 (19 now). But he claims he didn’t even speak a lick of English until then so 🤷‍♀️

Someone from Ontario did comment that they're all supposed to learn at school so unless he has a learning disorder it shouldn't be that hard. And while I haven't had that experience myself my own father spoke exclusively his parents' first language until he was 6 and started elementary school, then proceeded to forget the language to the point where he only remembered a handful of words and sentences as an adult and was helpless when I asked him to teach me as a kid (which corroborates my point about linguistics and second languages).

Now as your Internet parental figure, I think that whether French is his first language or not, if he's forgotten enough to struggle, bragging is a way to impress you, except it's not impressive. It's giving 'I used to be captain of the team'. Being bilingual is not a green flag, it's just cool, but he's being dishonest to wow you when he could have been truthful (as I doubt French-speaker is part of your shopping list, ergo he put himself in this situation) and it would have been a nice way to bond; and he's picked a reality from over a decade ago, so he's got squat to be proud of. He's not generous, handy, or a good baker, he's just breathing.

Trust your gut. That's the one piece of advice I'd give my past self. You're just talking and it already feels off. Life is too short to meh when you can slay (which I heard randomly on a TikTok live this week and now I have brain damage).

Hope this helps! x

[qwschoolca]

Exploring The Best Private Online High Schools In Canada

QW School tops the list of the Best Online Schools in Canada. It is in this league for several reasons. Our English Language Learners Policy is a big reason for it. Our teachers develop and implement effective teaching and assessment strategies to help English learners succeed in their online courses. Please visit the official website and see everything. Have any questions? Let's make a call!

[kmindzfaridabad]

Why Enrolling in a CELPIP Preparation Course is Essential for Your Success

If you are thinking about immigrating to Canada or seeking permanent residency, then you probably know how cardinal the test of language proficiency gets. The CELPIP is one of those outlined examinations in English, usually meant for immigration and professional certification. Though some people might have confidence in their English command, it always pays to join a CELPIP preparation course, since that will remarkably increase the chances of passing. At K-Mindz Education, we believe proper preparation through the practice provided here will play a key role in achieving desired scores and deal with the CELPIP exam accordingly.

Understanding the CELPIP Exam

Before looking at the advantages that come with taking the CELPIP preparation course, it is relevant to explain what this kind of exam comprises. The CELPIP test is meant to measure your English-language proficiency in the areas of listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Ontario initially developed the test as reliable evidence of one's ability to function in real-life situations, quite critical in effective communication in Canada. The test has two forms: CELPIP-General usually key in most immigrant processes and CELPIP-General LS, which focuses on the listening and speaking aspects.

While many students may have a good grasp of the English language, CELPIP requires familiarity within its specific format and type of question asked. It is also where a specialized course of preparation concerning CELPIP will come in.

Structured Learning Environment These are just some of the major advantages that one can have by enrolling in a CELPIP preparation course. Here at K-Mindz Education, we design our courses to take students through each component of the CELPIP exam in a systematic manner. With a set curriculum, you will not need to struggle with where to begin and what your focus should be. You will, instead, be put through a detailed study plan that covers all areas in the test.

Expert Advice By enrolling in the CELPIP Preparation Course, you will be introduced to expert instructors who have great experience teaching and handling CELPIP. Such professionals know not only the peculiarities of language but also those requirements this test has. Instructors here at K-Mindz Education offer great insight into effective test-taking strategies, common pitfalls to avoid, and the best ways to manage your time during the exam.

Targeted Practice Targeted practice cut across success in the CELPIP examination. Consistent practice sessions are part of our CELPIP preparation course to help you build up the skills necessary in each test component. You would do writing exercises to enhance coherence and clarity, for example, practice structured speaking, and improve listening comprehension through mock tests and scenarios emulating real-life situations.

Access to Study Materials Once you decide to register with K-Mindz Education for the CELPIP preparation course, much study material is provided, including but not limited to textbooks, practice tests, and online resources. These course materials are designed in such a way that they conform to the required format of the CELPIP exam and are hence relevant. Furthermore, access to a number of resources will try to address multiple learning styles and make your preparation accordingly more efficient.

Mock Tests and Feedback One of the best ways to study for the CELPIP test is by taking practice tests. In our class of CELPIP preparation, we shall be able to incorporate full-length practice exams so that you get a feel of what the actual test will be like. This will also help you know your current weak points so that you may work on those aspects. Instructors will provide you with constructive feedback about your performance after each mock test, which would enable you to identify your strengths and weaknesses. The type of focused feedback is essential to fine-tune the skills and subsequently build up the confidence you need to take the examination.

Building Confidence For many students, the idea of sitting for an English proficiency test is intimidating. Signing up for a CELPIP preparation course will go a long way in soothing these nerves. As you study through the course and find yourself getting better with each passing day, your confidence naturally will rise. As a matter of fact, a well-prepared candidate is generally a more confident candidate, and this confidence leads to better performance.

Peer Support and Networking Studying with others who have the same goals is a pretty motivating experience. A CELPIP preparation course offered by K-Mindz Education is fully supportive, letting you share experiences, strategies, and resources with fellow students. Interaction with peers will enhance your learning process and develop a sense of community among the students who prepare for the same challenge.

Post Course Support Moreover, many CELPIP preparation courses offer post-course support, which is important to maintain success. Students often have questions or need guidance regarding final preparations after the course is completed. At K-Mindz Education, we offer ongoing support since instruction would help you stay focused and motivated for an approach toward your exam date.

Conclusion

In short, enrolling in a CELPIP preparation course will be a very sure way for anyone to achieve success in the CELPIP examination. These are organized sessions that offer professional instruction through concerted practice and worthwhile materials that should make all the difference in your results. At K-Mindz Education, we try to help you unlock your potential to achieve your goals. Call us now to find out about our intensive CELPIP preparation course if you are ready to take an advanced step toward your CELPIP success!

[adrabas]

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting an Accredited Jewish High School in Ontario

Selecting the right high school for your child is a crucial decision, especially when considering a Jewish education. In Ontario, several accredited Jewish high schools provide an excellent balance between academic excellence and religious teachings. Accreditation ensures that the school meets educational standards and offers a structured, high-quality curriculum. For parents, choosing an accredited Jewish high school means their child will receive both a well-rounded academic education and a deep connection to their Jewish heritage. This guide will highlight key considerations parents should keep in mind when selecting an accredited Jewish high school in Ontario.

Why Accreditation Matters

Accreditation is a seal of approval that confirms a school meets certain standards of quality and accountability. In Ontario, accredited Jewish high schools are recognized by the Ministry of Education, meaning they comply with provincial educational guidelines while offering a unique blend of secular and Jewish studies. These schools undergo regular evaluations to ensure they maintain high standards in both academic and religious programs.

For parents, accreditation provides peace of mind. It guarantees that the school offers a recognized diploma, ensuring that students are well-prepared for university or other post-secondary options. It also reflects the school’s commitment to fostering both academic growth and a strong Jewish identity, creating a holistic educational experience.

Balancing Secular and Jewish Education

One of the biggest advantages of attending an accredited Jewish high school Ontario is the dual curriculum, which combines secular subjects with religious studies. Students are taught core subjects like math, science, and English, alongside Jewish studies such as Torah, Talmud, and Hebrew language. This integrated approach enables students to excel academically while staying connected to their faith and traditions.

Parents should inquire about how the school balances these two components. Some Jewish high schools offer advanced placement (AP) courses or other specialized academic programs, ensuring that students are challenged and prepared for higher education. At the same time, they foster spiritual growth through daily prayer, Jewish ethics, and celebrations of religious holidays. A well-rounded program ensures that students graduate as knowledgeable, confident individuals.

Focus on Jewish Values and Identity

A key feature of any accredited Jewish high school is its focus on fostering a strong Jewish identity. Parents should look for schools that emphasize Jewish values, such as kindness, charity, and community service. These values are often integrated into the curriculum and extracurricular activities, giving students opportunities to practice what they learn.

Extracurricular activities, such as youth groups, Jewish clubs, and leadership programs, provide a supportive environment where students can develop meaningful relationships and explore their spirituality.

Choosing an accredited Jewish high school in Ontario like ADRABA ensures that your child receives an education that prioritizes both academic success and Jewish identity. The combination of accreditation, a balanced curriculum, and a focus on values gives students the tools they need to excel academically and personally. Parents should consider these factors when selecting the best educational environment for their child’s growth and future success. Call 437 777 2372 to get your child admitted to the school.

[ivenvs3000f24]

2: Teaching Learners (and my ideal interpreter role)

My ideal nature interpretation role would involve making environmental education more accessible to youth by working as an outdoor education teacher. Natural spaces can often be intimidating to those who are unfamiliar with them. I want to show youth (and their caregivers) practical ways to stay safe in nature, and the benefits of interacting with the natural spaces around us.

I also want to instill the importance of environmental protection and education. Oftentimes, environmental education is not privileged in school curriculum and brushed to the side. Given student’s limited time in school and the difficulty of teaching important subjects such as math and English, this is understandable (although still unfortunate.) I want to use the limited time given to environmental education in a way that will help students appreciate nature, instead of just absorbing some knowledge about it.

I believe that tactile, in-person experiences are the best way to achieve this goal, as it allows learners to connect with the world around them on a personal level. I think that the principle of spark described in our textbook (Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World, page 85) encompasses this approach well; you need to connect your subject to learner’s personal lives in order to inspire them.

This ideal role would involve a wide range of interpretative activities. For example, I could help younger students learn about the diversity of plants that grow in their schoolyard, take older students on short hikes, and arrange canoe trips for high schoolers. Many students (whether due to physical, economical or social barriers) lack opportunities to engage with the natural world around them outside of school activities such as these. Overall, my goal would be to make nature accessible and empower students to take an interest in the natural world around them. In this role, I would likely be working for a schoolboard, or an educational non-profit.

A role like this one would require a wide range of skills. I would need to be highly adaptable to accommodate my learners and their needs, have a good working knowledge of outdoor safety and skills and be very familiar with the requirements of the school curriculum. Working with children and youth requires a lot of soft skill building and experience. Like any good nature interpreter, I would also need insightful knowledge of the ecosystems and natural features of the surrounding area.

On a practical level, this would mean earning a degree from the Ontario College of Teachers, being certified in Wilderness First Aid, keeping up a good amount of fitness and expanding my own environmental learning by attending workshops and certifications.

Working in this role would also mean learning how to teach a wide variety of learning styles. Although I am an auditory learner, I know that value in providing visual examples and exploratory learning that helps everyone engage with nature and learning.

[goretoec]

Leading Universities in Canada for International Student Education

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students. The country offers high-quality education, diverse cultures, and welcoming communities. In this article, we will explore some of the best colleges and universities in Canada that are known for their excellence in international student education. If you are considering studying in Canada, these institutions should be at the top of your list.

Top Universities in Canada

Here are some of the leading universities in Canada for international student education:

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto (U of T) is one of the most prestigious universities in Canada. Located in the vibrant city of Toronto, U of T offers a wide range of programs in various fields such as arts, science, engineering, and business. The university is known for its research excellence and diverse student community, with international students from over 160 countries.

2. University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is another top university in Canada for international students. With campuses in Vancouver and Okanagan, UBC offers stunning natural surroundings along with excellent academic programs. UBC is renowned for its research facilities, innovative teaching methods, and strong focus on sustainability. The university also provides a variety of support services to help international students succeed.

3. McGill University

McGill University, located in Montreal, is one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. McGill is known for its strong emphasis on research and its diverse student body. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and its downtown campus provides a unique urban experience. Montreal itself is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, making it a great place for international students.

4. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta, located in Edmonton, is known for its comprehensive programs and research excellence. The university offers more than 200 undergraduate programs and over 500 graduate programs. International students at the University of Alberta benefit from a supportive community, extensive resources, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

5. University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is famous for its strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship. Located in Ontario, the university offers co-op programs that allow students to gain valuable work experience while studying. The University of Waterloo is particularly known for its engineering, computer science, and business programs. The university’s strong ties with industry provide international students with numerous opportunities for internships and job placements.

6. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa is the largest bilingual (English-French) university in the world, offering programs in both languages. Located in the capital city of Canada, the university provides a unique opportunity for students interested in government and public affairs. The University of Ottawa is known for its diverse community, strong research programs, and excellent support services for international students.

7. Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University (SFU), located in British Columbia, is known for its innovative programs and strong focus on community engagement. SFU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a particular emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. The university’s beautiful campuses and supportive environment make it a great choice for international students.

8. Western University

Western University, located in London, Ontario, is known for its strong programs in business, health sciences, and engineering. The university offers a welcoming environment for international students, with numerous support services and a vibrant campus life. Western University’s commitment to research and innovation makes it a leading choice for students looking to study in Canada.

Support Services for International Students

One of the key factors that make these universities stand out is their commitment to supporting international students. Here are some common support services provided by these institutions:

Orientation Programs: Universities often have orientation programs to help international students adjust to their new environment. These programs include campus tours, information sessions, and social activities.

Academic Support: Many universities offer academic support services such as tutoring, writing centres, and study workshops to help students succeed in their studies.

Counselling Services: Mental health is important, and universities provide counselling services to support the well-being of their students.

Career Services: Career centres help students with job placements, resume writing, and interview preparation. Co-op programs and internships are also available to gain practical experience.

Cultural Activities: Universities often organise cultural events and activities to help international students feel at home and connect with their peers.

Life as an International Student in Canada

Living in Canada as an international student offers a unique and enriching experience. Here are some aspects of student life that you can look forward to:

Cultural Diversity

Canada is known for its cultural diversity and inclusivity. As an international student, you will have the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures, which can broaden your perspectives and enhance your global awareness.

Quality of Life

Canada consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices. With its clean environment, excellent healthcare system, and safe cities, you can expect a comfortable and healthy living experience.

Work Opportunities

International students in Canada are allowed to work part-time during their studies and full-time during breaks. This provides a great opportunity to gain work experience, support your education, and potentially stay in Canada after graduation through various immigration pathways.

Recreational Activities

Canada offers a wide range of recreational activities, from outdoor sports like skiing and hiking to cultural festivals and events. There is always something to do and explore, whether you are in a bustling city or a scenic town.

Conclusion

Studying in Canada offers numerous advantages, from high-quality education to a welcoming and diverse community. The universities mentioned in this article are among the best in Canada and provide excellent opportunities for international students. Whether you are interested in research, innovation, or gaining practical work experience, these institutions have programs and support services to help you achieve your goals.

If you are considering studying in Canada, be sure to explore these universities and the many benefits they offer. With their strong academic programs, supportive environments, and vibrant campus life, they are sure to provide a rewarding educational experience.

[ivorytowerblr]

I'm going to tell this story because I think it's on theme, but to start with, I genuinely do love math and numbers even if I don't work a lot with the former. The latter, oh god, my job is numbers and scheduling now.

Back when I was in primary school, I was pretty okay at math, I thought. In Grade 6, I was one of only three people that passed math in my class of maybe twenty? We wound up with a split class while the people that had failed redid their math but had passed everything else. In Grade 7, my math teacher was abysmal. He was also our science and gym teacher, and it really showed.

He did not teach us anything. He told us to look at our books and do the assigned homework pages and when it came time to correction he'd have us gather around his desk and correct ourselves. Which means no one bothered to do the homework because it's not like he was checking it, right?

So then I switched schools, to the private schools where I spent four years and indeed graduated from. My homeroom teacher was the math teacher and, additionally, it was a fully French language school.

"Oh god," thought I, as though Catholic flavoured god was listening. "Help me, I'm no good at math."

As it turns out, this teacher was bilingual so as I sat there, panicked and completely unprepared for math, he would come to my desk and explain concepts to me in English, and my grade sharply got better. I went from barely passing to high eighties, and I even got the highest grade at one point! My confidence soared!

From that point on, if I had the opportunity to take advanced math, I did. I did really well, and even when I went back to Ontario for OAC, I took every math class it allowed me to. Math is awesome.

I think what I liked about math was the patterns. The way the numbers flowed, the repetition you could see.

When I was tutoring kids at the library, before I got my first full time job, I remember just randomly doing a 0 x 12 to 12 x 12 multiplication chart and noticing the smooth way the numbers rose. It was really neat to see.

I love math. I love numbers. I love the way it relates to science and people.

I didn't wanna derail the other post but I still wanna spread some love for my favourite subject...

Reblog if you've ever felt genuine joy or excitement from doing and/or thinking about math