LANGUAGES Languages are part of the cultural richness of our society and the world in which we live. Learning languages contributes to mutual understanding, a sense of global citizenship and personal fulfilment. For our Singaporean Citizens and Permanent Residents, we comply with the Singapore Ministry of Education’s Mother Tongue Language (MTL) Requirements. Please click here to access the school policy on MTL Requirements.
What is the nature of Languages at IGCSE level? Students will develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in order to communicate effectively using the language they are studying. They will use the language whenever and wherever possible. Students will also learn the culture of the countries where the language is spoken so that they have a better understanding of the similarities and differences between their own culture and the culture of the language they are learning. In this way, students will have a positive attitude towards the cultures of others. The course aims to form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure: ● Offer insights into the culture and civilisation of the countries where the language is spoken ● Develop a fuller awareness of the nature of language and language learning; ● Encourage positive attitudes toward language learning and towards speakers of other languages and a
sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations; ● Provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation; ● Complement other areas of study by encouraging skills of a more general application (e.g. analysis,
memorising, drawing of inferences).
What is the approach to learning? In Languages, students will improve their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills using a learner-centered approach that is not restricted to textbooks. Instead, students will be exposed to various types of texts taken from a range of materials. Students will learn the language through diverse activities such as role-plays, oral presentations and language games. Assignments and assessments are varied so that students are aware of their strengths and areas to be improved.
What is the subject content? Please note: 1.
The following lists of topics are not exhaustive and may be changed according to students’ level of ability and interest. The topics may not be taught in the order as they appear on the lists.
2.
IGCSE Chinese (1st, 2nd and Foreign Language), Malay Foreign Language and Indonesian Foreign Language examinations take place in Semester 1 of Grade 10: the oral examination is in March, and the written examination occurs in May.
3. Because of the small class sizes, Malay/Indonesian and Tamil will be taught for two periods per week instead of three. For the remaining one period, students will report to the school library to do self-study. Subject teachers will set meaningful work for the students. 11
