The curriculum remains rigorous and relevant. What has changed are the ways in which Mother Tongue Languages (MTLs) are taught.
Bilingualism is at the core of the Singaporean national identity. It is important that our students learn MTL to as high a level as they can. We want every student to communicate effectively in their MTL, appreciate their cultural heritage, and connect with communities across Asia and the world.
However, much of the popular culture and entertainment that our children are exposed to today are in English. At home, many families converse more in English than in their mother tongue.
To better engage students in the learning and use of MTL within and beyond the classroom, as well as grow their interest and skills, schools are tapping on differentiated curriculum and innovative teaching approaches, such as role-playing and gamification.
Here's a snapshot of how students are supported in building their MTL skills across different levels:
Enabling Every Student
At every level, students are supported to learn MTL to their best ability and interest.
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How do teachers nurture their students' interest in their MTL? Read on to find out: Necessity, the Mother (Tongue) of Innovation (schoolbag.edu.sg) |
Beyond School
There are many opportunities to learn MTL in fun ways.
MOE works closely with the three Mother Tongue Language Learning and Promotion Committees (MTLLPC) and community partners to run various activities year-round to facilitate students' learning and use of MTL outside the classroom. Students may take part in activities ranging from literary festivals, theatre performances to language-based competitions, such as "Xin Kong Xia" Xinyao Singing and Song-writing Competition, Cepat Tepat, and Sorpor Debate Competition.
The Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism complements MOE's efforts by providing funding support for proposals that encourage bilingualism and the learning of MTLs as a lifelong endeavour. For example, the Fund supported the production of print resources (bilingualism.sg/files/whats-up/LKYFB-Fund-supported-Print-Resources.pdf) to support young learners in language learning.
It takes a whole-of-society effort to create a vibrant and conducive environment that promotes MTL learning and use.
Raising a Bilingual Child
As a parent, you play a key role. Here's what you can do.
Catch the following videos for more tips to support primary school learners: