Mother Tongue Language

Department Vision

Empowering Bilingualism Learners: Cultivating Cultural Roots, Fostering Future Leaders

Student Outcomes

1. Confident Bilingual Communicators: Students develop proficient communication skills in their mother tongue languages, empowering them to express themselves effectively in diverse contexts.

2. Cultural Stewards: Students love, appreciate, and perpetuate their traditional ethnic cultures, fostering a sense of belonging to their heritage and Singaporean identity.

3. Global Citizens: Students cultivate cross-cultural literacy and demonstrate kindness and sensitivity towards individuals from diverse backgrounds, preparing them to thrive in an interconnected world.

4. Future Leaders: Students emerge as compassionate, resilient leaders equipped with 21st-century competencies, ready to contribute positively to society.

The school aims to cultivate students’ interest in their Mother Tongue Language and further develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills through various platforms. Programmes are organised to engage students and support learning. These programmes include the Mother Tongue Language Fortnight programmes, language and cultural camps, programmes and activities related to festivals, enrichment classes and theatre exposure programmes.

1) Hari Raya Celebrations 2024

The 2024 Hari Raya celebration began with a stunning exhibition in the school library, featuring beautiful pop-up displays loaned from the Malay Heritage Centre. These exhibitions provided students with an opportunity to learn more about the Hari Raya celebration in Singapore. Malay Language students from P3 to P6 played a crucial role as Malay Language Culture Ambassadors, explaining Malay culture and the significance of Hari Raya to their peers. Additionally, students interacted with the exhibits through interactive questions on iPads. The Hari Raya celebration in the school hall featured a skit titled “Awakening Traditions”. Students learnt about the cultural and religious significance of Hari Raya.

Hari Raya exhibition in the school library	Student ambassadors explaining about the Malay culture
Students participating in interactive exhibition using iPads	Hari Raya performance in the Hall

2) Mother Tongue Language Fortnight 2024

During MT Fortnight, students learnt about how cultures and values are tied in together. For example, P6 students learnt about a historical figure and engaged in a hands-on activity to design their own kite. They not only learnt about the importance of perseverance but also had the opportunity to demonstrate their creativity.

Additionally, students also delved into the fascinating world of spices, exploring the diverse array of flavors and aromas used in different cultures. Utilizing their five senses, they embarked on a sensory journey to discover the unique characteristics of various spices. This immersive approach encouraged students to appreciate the richness of cultural diversity.

Through these activities, students not only gained valuable knowledge but also developed a greater appreciation for the values and different cultures that shape our world.

Recess Activity_Spice Exploration	Learning to play the Indian drum
Bunga Rampai (Mixture of flowers) activity	Designing traditional kites

3) P3 to P5 Higher Chinese Language Learning Journey 2024

P3 and P4 HCL students embarked on a Learning Journey at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, delving into the rich tapestry of traditions and heritage. Through this journey, they gained a deeper understanding of the rich history, heritage, and cultural significance of the Chinese community in Singapore, while also gaining insights into the socio-cultural diversity of the nation.

Meanwhile, P5 HCL students ventured into the world of journalism at Singapore Press Holdings, unraveling the complexities of news reporting. They grasped the power of words and the ethical responsibilities associated with media communication, reinforcing their commitment to integrity and accuracy.

Both experiences sparked curiosity and expanded horizons, enriching their educational journey at SMS(P).

P3 and P4 HCL students taking a walk around the museum	P3 and P4 HCL students trying out Chinese Opera Costumes
P5 HCL students watching a live radio broadcast	P5 HCL students’ learning journey at SPH

4) Chinese New Year Celebrations 2024

Amidst the festive spirit, the school welcomed Chinese New Year, commencing celebrations with recess activities, including engaging iPad games and lively card-matching challenges. The day’s highlight unfolded in a vibrant concert, where students joyously sang and danced to the lively tunes of Chinese New Year songs. As the festivities peaked, students concluded the day with Chinese New Year decorations and craft hands-on activities.

In alignment with our school theme, “A Heart of Thanksgiving to Love and Serve,” a group of P5 students embraced the role of gratitude ambassadors. Venturing beyond the school walls, they generously gifted oranges and Chinese New Year cards to our neighbours. Public bus drivers who serve the bus-stops outside SMS(P), were also surprised to receive tokens of appreciation from teachers. Their joy was evident as they accepted these thoughtful gifts. The act of extending warm wishes for the festive season left a lasting impact not only within the school community, but also with the school’s partners. This heartwarming gesture strengthened the bond between the school and its extended community, fostering a spirit of appreciation and goodwill.

Performance by the P3 students	Students crafted own CNY 3D cards
Students wishing Mattar MRT staff Happy CNY	Students presenting CNY gifts to our neighbours!

Chinese Language

1. 知识网
   www.ezhishi.net

2. 早报网
   www.zaobao.com.sg

Malay Language

1. Kamus Dewan Online
   http://prpm.dbp.gov.my/

2. Berita Harian SG
   www.beritaharian.sg/