April 16, 2010

Although the fish weren’t biting, the enthusiasm was nibbling at the heels of more than 15 people from around the world on March 8th.

Adult students from the Near North District School Board’s ESL (English as a Second Language) Program enjoyed a day on Lake Nosbonsing learning the Canadian tradition of ice fishing.

Hosted by Detective Constable Raymond Yelle and Big Brothers and Big Sisters, the activity ignited numerous questions and some hesitation about walking out on the ice in March.

“I reassured students that the ice was safe and taught them the differences between ice fishing and the fishing most of them have experienced. They were very fascinated with the ice auger and baiting the lines, and some were surprised how many rules there are to follow when fishing in Ontario”, said Yelle.

ESL Teacher, Melanie McVeety, added that some students are experiencing their first year in Canada and the “culture shock”, especially winter activities, can be exciting, but intimidating.

“The majority of students had never gone ice fishing before, so they were so excited and appreciative. We have gone downhill skiing and curling this year, so ice fishing was the ‘icing on the cake’ in exposing them to popular Canadian activities.”

Japanese student, Sanae Hay, says it has been her most memorable winter activity this year.

“I had never seen huts on a frozen lake in Japan. I was very curious about what Canadians were doing inside those huts, how they could get fish from a frozen lake, and what they were doing while they were waiting for fish.”

More than 15 countries are represented in the Adult ESL class and “hands-on” activities, such as ice fishing, are learning experiences that McVeety says helps immigrants feel more comfortable and connected to their new way of life in Canada.