This guide is designed for Alberta (Canada) parents of French immersion students beginning formal English language instruction for the first time. In question-and-answer format, it discusses issues commonly of concern to these parents. Issues addressed include the following: why English instruction is introduced in the second or third year of schooling; what the child already knows about reading and writing; how long it will take for the child to catch up with children in the regular English-language program; what the parent can expect to be happening in the English language learning classroom; what to do if the child is experiencing difficulties; and helping the child make a successful transition. Samples of 3 grade 3 children's writing, at the beginning of the transition year and 10 weeks later, are also presented, with comments on specific areas of progress in English composition. (MSE)