The YMCA Language Assessment Centre has been in operation since 1992. It was established as part of the Federal Government's initiative to improve newcomers' access to language training, also known as the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC).

Besides being part of Cross Cultural and Immigrant Services, the Language Assessment Centre is a member of TESL Ontario and Project Read and collaborates with a variety of other immigrant-serving agencies in the community.

Services Provided
The Languages Assessment Centre staff provide:

• Eligibility screening
• Assessment of language skills
• Referral to language training and/or other programs in Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge
• Information on language training and other programs

Eligibility: Adult landed immigrants, convention refugees and people to whom Canada intends to give landed status can be assessed.

Assessment tools and levels: Newcomers' language skills are evaluated using the Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment (CLBA) introduced in 1996 or the more recent Canadian Language Benchmarks Placement Test (CLBPT). These tools measure newcomers' skills in four areas of language: Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. They come with their own scoring system whereby a LINC level is determined. At present, LINC levels range from 1 to 7.

In 1998, the Canadian Language Benchmarks Literacy Assessment (CLBLA) was also introduced. This tool determines newcomers' literacy skills and is unique in its use of first-language tasks.

Starting 2008, the Language Assessment Centre also provides Enhanced Language Training Placement Assessments (ELTPA) for ELT programs.  The tool is used for Benchmarks 6 - 10.

Referral is the last step in the assessment process. Depending on their needs and preferences, newcomers can choose a LINC class, an English As A Second Language (ESL) class and/or other training programs. LINC classes are available through the Conestoga College LINC and the Separate Board.  If eligible, LINC students benefit from transportation and childminding assistance.

Booking an Appointment
For more information or to book an appointment, call 579-9622 or drop by our Language Assessment Centre located at 800 King St. W, Kitchener. We are open daily Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00pm (noon).

On request, assessments can also be provided on Saturday.

Other Links
For information on language training programs in Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge, you can visit http://stlouis.wcdsb.ca & www.conestogac.on.ca More information about assessment centres in Ontario and the Canadian Language Benchmarks can be found at http://www.language.ca.

Le Centre d’Évaluation de la Langue

(«LAC»)

«LAC» de YMCA à K-W est un programme d’évaluation et un centre de référence des programmes d’apprentissage de l’anglais comme seconde langue à K-W et à Cambridge.

Des moniteurs évaluent le niveau d’anglais lors d’entretiens et de tests selon le «Canadian Language Benchmarks Literacy Assessment (CLBLA)» ou «Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment (CLBA)». Ces tests mesurent l’abilité de l’individu à lire, parler, écouter et écrire en anglais. Dès que le niveau est déterminé, l’individu est informé des options et des programmes d’apprentissage. Parmi ces programmes est «LINC» Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (Instruction dans la Langue pour les Nouveaux Venus au Canada), ainsi que d’autres programmes d’anglais comme deuxième langue et des programmes communautaires.

Les évaluateurs considèrent les préférences individuelles pour la quantité, l’heure et le lieu des études ainsi que les éventuels besoins pour les déplacements et les gardes d’enfants.

Pour plus d’information ou pour une consultation, téléphoner au

579-9622