Singapore Secondary 2 Higher Mother Tongue Language Syllabus (Chinese, Malay, or Tamil)

This information is based on the 2021 Ministry of Education (MOE) syllabus, implemented for the 2021 Secondary One cohort.

Introduction

The Higher Mother Tongue Language (HMTL) syllabus aims to develop students into active and proficient language users, focusing on Communication, Culture, and Connection. It builds upon the foundation established in primary school, enhancing listening, speaking, reading, writing, and interaction skills. The syllabus leverages cultural and literary materials to broaden global awareness and encourages language use in real-world situations.

Guiding Principles

The HMTL syllabus adheres to these principles:

1. Explicit and differentiated instruction of language skills and knowledge. 2. Systematic integration of cultural values for a richer learning experience. 3. Utilizing technology and community partnerships to extend learning beyond the classroom.

Content

The curriculum framework centers around engaging students in joyful learning, developing them into active learners and proficient users of their Mother Tongue. The framework focuses on three broad objectives:

• Communication: Developing students into competent language users and confident communicators through the six language skills: listening, reading, speaking, writing, spoken interaction, and written interaction.
• Culture: Educating students about their ethnic heritage, traditions, culture, and values through themed units and stories integrated into the curriculum.
• Connection: Empowering students to stay connected to their Mother Tongues beyond the classroom through leveraging technology and community partners.

Key Features:

The 2021 syllabus includes these enhancements:

1. Increased Cultural Infusion: Cultural elements are systematically integrated to foster communication skills, enhance cultural connection, and promote appreciation of Mother Tongue culture within the Singaporean context. 2. Greater Literary Engagement: Exposure to literary texts is increased, especially in lower secondary, to cultivate a joy of reading and prepare students for higher-level literature studies. 3. Contemporary Relevance: Current affairs and contemporary issues are used to contextualize learning and demonstrate the real-world relevance of Mother Tongue languages. 4. ICT Integration: Technology is integrated into approximately 30% of the curriculum through digital texts, social media, and resources within the Student Learning Space (SLS) to enhance interactivity and personalized learning.

Learning Outcomes

The syllabus aligns with the 21st Century Competencies (21CC) framework, encompassing Communication, Collaboration and Information Skills; Civic Literacy, Global Awareness and Cross-Cultural Skills; and Critical and Inventive Thinking Skills.

Curriculum Differentiation

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

Curriculum Time

The weekly curriculum time varies depending on the specific HMTL course.

Pedagogy

The HMTL syllabus emphasizes joyful and meaningful learning experiences. Teachers employ various strategies, including:

• Learner-Centered Approach: Focusing on individual student needs and utilizing effective questioning techniques.
• Collaborative Learning: Promoting interaction and communication through activities like peer reviews, group presentations, and collaborative writing.
• E-Pedagogy: Utilizing technology to enhance learning through diverse resources and blended learning approaches.
• Authentic Materials: Incorporating real-world materials like internet postings, videos, and news articles to develop critical thinking and language skills.
• Contextualized Discussions: Connecting cultural elements and literary texts to students' lives and experiences.
• Learning Beyond the Classroom: Encouraging participation in community-based language events and promoting lifelong learning.

Assessment

Assessment is integral to the learning process and includes:

• Clarity of Purpose: Aligning assessment methods with learning outcomes.
• Variety of Modes: Utilizing various assessment methods, including formative assessments, weighted assessments, and alternative assessments like speeches and debates.
• Authentic Assessment: Designing tasks that reflect real-world language use.
• Reflection: Encouraging self-assessment and peer-assessment to promote metacognition and interpersonal skills.
• Lifelong Learning: Emphasizing that assessment is a checkpoint in the ongoing journey of language learning. Teachers are expected to develop assessment literacy to effectively diagnose and address learning gaps.