Elements of fun in new English curriculum

from The Star Online

WE refer to the letter “Emphasis must be on how language is spoken” (The Star, March 29). The Education Ministry would like to thank the writer for his interest in matters pertaining to education.

The new English curriculum to be implemented for Year One pupils will take effect in 2011. This curriculum places equal importance on the skills of listening and speaking, reading, writing and language arts.

In Years One and Two, emphasis is on building a strong foundation of competencies in basic literacy through phonics to enable pupils to grasp a sound knowledge of letter sounds. This is essential in helping pupils to recognise words and then engage in early reading.

Grammar is only introduced from Year Three onwards and is to be taught in context. The deferment is thought prudent as grammar awareness is best triggered in pupils’ first language/mother tongue instruction.

In Years One and Two, pupils get a lot of exposure in speaking and listening through Language Arts which is a new component designed to create appreciation and enjoyment amongst pupils.

They sing songs, recite rhymes, role-play and stage plays and engage in other fun-filled learning activities. Here, they experience interaction with their peers in English through dialogue and conversation.

The new curriculum is underpinned by the principles of fun learning and back to basics which will build a solid foundation for future language development.

CORPORATE

COMMUNICATION UNIT,

Ministry of Education.