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Mandarin has always been an important part of the curriculum at Dulwich College (Singapore) since we first opened our doors a decade ago. Being a truly international school with over 60 nationalities represented, the full spectrum of linguistic ability in Mandarin is found within our student body. Our students range from complete beginners to those with fully age-appropriate native-language literacy skills. At Dulwich College (Singapore), we have structured our curriculum to meet the learning needs of every student.
At the Kindergarten level, (DUCKS), we have adopted a Dual Language approach based on the idea that children learn best when they are exposed to two languages in meaningful, natural ways. The core principle behind this programme is additive bilingualism – we believe that learning two languages from a young age gives children both linguistic and cognitive advantages, helping children develop socially and intellectually.
Our goal is that children who start with us in Pre-Nursery and continue through DUCKS will become proficient in understanding and speaking both English and Mandarin by the end of Year 2. This will allow them to use both languages comfortably in social and academic settings.
Meaningful communication
Each class has both an English-speaking teacher and a Mandarin-speaking teacher, who work closely together. During play and other activities, the teachers use both English and Mandarin to provide the children with language they can learn and understand in real, everyday situations – engaging in both languages with equal ease.
In the Early Years, we focus on listening and speaking the two languages. As children progress into Key Stage 1, the curriculum is planned and taught collaboratively by the class teachers and Mandarin teachers. The Mandarin teachers identify key language and real-life scenarios for the children to practice and converse. Children also have dedicated Mandarin lessons each week to further develop their skills.
Throughout, the emphasis is on natural, meaningful communication, not just strict accuracy. We want children to feel comfortable using both languages without pressure. When they do start speaking Mandarin, the teachers engage with them in a supportive manner, modelling correct language usage.
As oral skills improve, we also focus on literacy. We read high-quality books in both languages, chosen for their relevance and interest. Reading and writing Mandarin characters is then taught separately in addition to the general Dual Language activities.
“Learning two languages gives children linguistic and cognitive advantages”
Explore ourDual Language Environment at DUCKS Discovery Days
Dulwich College (Singapore) is opening its doors for you and your child to experience DUCKS. We invite parents with children aged 2 – 5 years old to immerse themselves in our inspiring learning environments, guided by our professional Early Years practitioners. Meanwhile, parents will have the opportunity to meet our professional team, observe our Dual Language learning in action, and witness what makes DUCKS special. Come and discover how our approach offers a joyful and purposeful introduction to education.
Email us at admissions.singapore@dulwich.org to register your interest in our upcoming DUCKS Discovery Days:
- Thursday, 3 October 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm
- Thursday, 21 November 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm
- Thursday, 28 November 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm
- Thursday, 5 December 2024: 1.30pm-2.30pm
71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966
+65 6890 1003
admissions.singapore@dulwich.org
www.singapore.dulwich.org
