Singapore Secondary 1 Tamil Language (G1)

This information is based on the 2021 Secondary Mother Tongue Languages syllabus implemented for the 2021 Secondary One cohort.

Overall Goals:

The curriculum aims to develop students into active and proficient users of their Mother Tongue Language (MTL), focusing on Communication, Culture, and Connection. It builds upon the foundation laid in primary school, enhancing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as spoken and written interaction. Students are also guided to understand and appreciate various cultural and literary materials to strengthen their global and cross-cultural awareness.

Guiding Principles:

• Explicit and differentiated teaching of language skills and knowledge.
• Systematic infusion of culture and values.
• Leveraging technology and community partners to connect students to MTL beyond the classroom.

Curriculum Framework:

The curriculum comprises Language Skills, Language Knowledge, and Cultural Values.

• Language Skills: Focuses on developing competency in listening, reading, speaking, writing, spoken interaction, and written interaction.
• Language Knowledge: Encompasses Linguistics (phonology, orthography, lexicon, grammar, and text knowledge) and Pragmatics (cultural references, registers, varieties, and functional purposes).
• Cultural Values: Integrates the learning of positive values and promotes good character development through themes related to relationships, family, and community, interwoven with cultural and contemporary stories.

Key Features and Enhancements:

• Cultural Infusion: More deliberate incorporation of cultural knowledge and appreciation, including Material Civilisation, Behaviour & System, and Values & Philosophies, with differentiated instruction based on language proficiency.
• Literary Texts: Increased exposure to and engagement with literary texts, especially in lower secondary levels, to promote joy of reading and prepare for higher-level literature studies.
• Contemporary Issues: Extensive use of contemporary issues and current affairs materials to contextualize learning and demonstrate the relevance of MTL in the real world.
• ICT Integration: Greater integration of ICT-enabled lessons for enhanced interactivity and customized learning, with about 30% of the curriculum comprising non-print digital materials.

Curriculum Differentiation:

The curriculum offers G1, G2, G3, and Higher Mother Tongue Language courses to cater to diverse student needs.

Curriculum Time:

The weekly curriculum time varies depending on the specific course and the number of subjects offered at the upper secondary levels. However, Tamil Language is a core subject.

Pedagogy:

The curriculum emphasizes joyful and meaningful learning experiences infused with 21st Century Competencies. Teachers employ various strategies, including:

• Learner-centered approaches.
• Collaborative learning theories.
• Effective use of e-pedagogy and blended learning.
• Incorporation of authentic materials.
• Contextualized discussions on culture and literary texts.
• Encouraging learning beyond the classroom through community engagement.

Assessment:

Assessment is integral to the learning process and is both formative and summative. It aims to:

• Monitor student progress and guide learning.
• Utilize various assessment modes, including Weighted Assessment, alternative assessments (speeches, debates, role-play), and ICT platforms.
• Employ authentic assessment tasks that reflect real-world language use.
• Encourage reflection through peer-assessment and self-assessment.
• Promote lifelong learning of MTL beyond formal schooling.