Mother Tongue Languages

At Jiemin Primary School, we want our students to experience the joy of learning their Mother Tongue Language and grow to become active learners and confident users of the language. Through the learning of Chinese, Malay and Tamil, students develop the knowledge and skills to communicate effectively while deepening their appreciation of their culture, traditions and values.

Our learning approach

Our Mother Tongue Language lessons are designed to make language learning meaningful, engaging and relevant to students' lives. Students develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills progressively, building their confidence in using the language for different purposes and in different contexts.

Students learn through a variety of authentic experiences and materials connected to their interests and the world around them. Technology, multimedia resources, games and collaborative activities are also used purposefully to support learning and encourage students to participate actively.

Through the learning of Mother Tongue Languages, students also develop an appreciation of their cultural heritage and strengthen important competencies such as communication, collaboration and critical thinking.

Signature learning experiences

Mother Tongue Languages Fortnight

Through our Mother Tongue Languages Fortnight, students experience language and culture beyond the classroom. A range of activities involving food, traditional games, performing arts and literature provides authentic and enjoyable opportunities for students to use their Mother Tongue Languages while developing a deeper appreciation of their cultural heritage.

Extensive Reading

We nurture a love for reading and encourage students to develop lifelong reading habits in their Mother Tongue Languages. Through regular reading opportunities, library visits and a variety of reading materials, students broaden their vocabulary, strengthen their language skills and discover the joy of reading. 

Mother Tongue Language (MTL) SOAR is a school-based enrichment programme that provides pupils with meaningful, authentic and engaging learning experiences to strengthen their Mother Tongue language proficiency, develop confidence in communication, and foster a deeper appreciation of their language and culture. 

Chinese Language students and teachers posing with the parent volunteer at the story-telling session.

Malay Language students enraptured by the story-teller, who was a parent volunteer at the event.

Tamil Language students and teachers posing with the parent volunteer at the story-telling session.

Learning through authentic contexts

Through programmes such as our Applied Learning Programme and festive celebrations, students use their Mother Tongue Languages in meaningful contexts. These experiences connect language learning with real-world issues, culture and everyday life, helping students become more confident and effective communicators.

Supporting every learner

We recognise that students develop their Mother Tongue Language proficiency at different rates. Students who require additional support may receive targeted help through programmes such as the Mother Tongue Support Programme and Foundation Mother Tongue Language, which strengthen essential speaking, reading and writing skills and build confidence in learning the language.

Stretching our learners

Students with strong interest and aptitude in their Mother Tongue Languages are provided with opportunities to deepen their learning. These include Higher Mother Tongue Language and enrichment experiences in areas such as literature, extensive reading and writing, which further develop students' proficiency and appreciation of the language.