Hi hi,
Welcome to today’s From the Editor. What do you think of the changes?
In today’s issue:
Donald Anderson explains why he thinks permanent residents should have a say in referendums
Nishant Anand breaks down why you don’t need to develop a French native accent
Do we deny permanent residents self-determination when they can’t vote in a referendum?
Donald Anderson, a Canadian writer and traveller whose Terrian Journals explore life as a newcomer, thinks so. And he does make a really good argument. Let’s start with this: newcomers who are permanent residents or recently recognized Canadians arrive in Canada expecting to join the world’s largest country, with ten provinces and three territories, and to have the freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada.
However, that expectation is at risk whenever a province or territory holds a referendum on leaving Canada.
If they’ve already settled in the region, and the secession referendum passes, these families or individuals could find themselves in a much smaller country. One they didn’t bargain for when they chose to immigrate to Canada. Plus, the new country might face economic challenges, tense disputes with the rest of Canada, and stricter visa rules for living and working in Canada.
There’s also the risk that the new, smaller country might not automatically recognize newcomers as residents or citizens. Both the new country and what remains of Canada might also not allow dual citizenship.
In extreme cases, that could mean a newcomer loses their Canadian citizenship without having a say in the secession referendum.
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Date: Friday, November 6, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Toronto time)
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Q: Should I try to develop a French native accent?
A: No. Focus on clear, natural pronunciation instead of trying to sound like a native French speaker.
Your goal isn't to sound like a native French speaker. It's to speak clearly, naturally, and with confidence. Many people try to copy a French accent in the exam, but this can sound forced and distract from what they're saying. Rather than worrying about sounding native, focus on getting your ideas across clearly.
Pronunciation vs. Accent: What Is the Difference?
Pronunciation is about how you say sounds, link words, use intonation, pause, and express meaning with your voice.
An accent is the unique way you pronounce a language, often showing where you learned it or your language background.
For TEF Canada, your main goal should be to make sure the examiner can understand you easily. Good pronunciation helps your speaking performance. It makes your communication clearer, helps you present your ideas better, and lets you sound more confident and natural.
Remember, you don't need a native accent to get a high speaking score. What matters is speaking clearly, with control, and getting your message across.
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