A multidimensional curriculum approach for teaching second languages was first proposed by H. H. Stern (1982) and was researched and expanded by the National Core French Study. This approach means that the Core French program does not focus on language alone. Instead, elements from four learning dimensions are used: Communicative/Experiential, Language, Culture and General Language Education. The renewed Saskatchewan Core French curriculum is similar to the previous versions in that it combines all of these dimensions to provide a study of the second language in all its aspects, taking into account the context in which language is used for communication.

A multidimensional curriculum approach is used because:

• This approach better responds to the complexity of language. The code system is part of a very complex communicative ensemble which should be studied from many perspectives.
• Motivation suffers if communicating in real situations is delayed until the basic code system has been mastered.
• Second language learning can contribute to the general education of the student by having the student learn new concepts in many domains.
• This approach facilitates incorporation of the cross-curricular competencies to a much greater degree.
• It provides flexibility to correspond to the diversity of situations in which Core French is taught in Saskatchewan and helps to accommodate the differences in language ability and learning styles within each classroom.
• It encourages many new instructional strategies and methods.